Fish With Tower – Temptation of Saint Anthony Hieronymus Bosch Statue (JB03)

Fish With Tower – A Surreal Hieronymus Bosch Statue from The Temptation of Saint Anthony

This unusual Hieronymus Bosch statue brings to life one of the most striking hybrid creatures from The Temptation of Saint Anthony. On the left panel of the triptych, Bosch shows a surreal fish gliding through the air, wearing a red armored covering and carrying a turret on its back. The result is both humorous and unsettling. It is a creature that belongs to no real world and stands as a warning about temptation and spiritual vulnerability.

In the original painting, Saint Anthony stands firm against temptations. He resists seduction, pride, fear, and despair. Meanwhile, ordinary humans fall into every trap. The fish with a tower appears near the brothel. Its presence links temptation to danger. Bosch used hybrid creatures to show how sin can disguise itself. This Hieronymus Bosch figurine captures that combination of charm and threat in three dimensions.

Symbolism in This Bosch Statue

The fish form may refer to a creature prepared to devour others. Bosch used animals as moral symbols. Here, the fish seems ready to swallow its own kind. Its pointed snout and lifted body convey purpose. The red armored second skin gives it another layer of meaning. The color red links to lust, danger, and excess. The armor suggests readiness for attack or protection.

The turret on its back adds humor and darkness. It resembles small towers found in Bosch’s other works and may satirize corrupt institutions. It also suggests that temptation often appears in forms that look impressive but collapse under closer thought. This Hieronymus Bosch sculpture brings that symbolic tower into physical detail, encouraging reflection each time it is viewed.

Placement in The Temptation of Saint Anthony

Bosch filled this triptych with scenes of spiritual conflict. The fish with a tower appears in the left panel. Several temptations occur nearby. The brothel stands behind the creature. It represents one of the temptations Saint Anthony resisted. While humans give in, Anthony turns his mind toward prayer. The creature glides in front of the brothel as if reminding viewers of the danger that lies there.

This Hieronymus Bosch figurine gives viewers a chance to study that moment closely. The long red tail curls behind the creature. The small turret rises above its body. The mouth curves upward, as though in a half smile. The entire figure seems caught between mischief and menace.

About This Hieronymus Bosch Statue

Parastone has adapted Bosch’s painted hybrid into a detailed resin and hand-painted collectible. The smooth fish head blends browns and golds. The red armor has raised ridges and glossy highlight. The turret includes tiny openings and black-and-gold accents. This Hieronymus Bosch figurine uses both matte and glossy finishes to create depth and visual contrast.

Collectors appreciate how this Hieronymus Bosch statue captures the layered symbolism found in the left wing of the triptych. The dramatic design makes this Hieronymus Bosch statue a memorable piece for fans of medieval surrealism.

• Medium: Resin with hand-painted color details.
• Collection: Parastone Mouseion 3D Collection, item JB03.
• Dimensions: 4.5 in × 6 in × 2.5 in.
• Weight: Approx. 0.4 lbs.
• Explore more Bosch creatures: Visit the Bosch Collection .

Northern Renaissance Context

Bosch lived during the shift from medieval spirituality to early Renaissance inquiry. His work blends religious teaching with inventive fantasy. Hybrid figures like this fish challenge viewers to confront inner struggle and temptation. This Hieronymus Bosch sculpture continues that legacy by turning a painted creature into a tangible object with presence and personality.

For More Reading

• Read more about the full triptych on Wikipedia: Triptych of the Temptation of St. Anthony – Wikipedia .
• Study Bosch’s life and work in Oxford Art Online: Hieronymus Bosch – Grove Art Online .