$250,000 · Wooden Saint - 500 years old - from Germany

This incredible antique sculpture was found sealed inside an interior wall of the farm house I grew up in. I was actually present when it was found. That was in 1981. The house was build in 1523 in Königsbonn-Zang in Badenwürttemberg in the south of Germany. It was one of the 3 oldest farms in the village standing right across the street from the Catholic Church. Saints like this were hidden and sealed into walls or ceilings to protect the farm from bad omens. Another time when religious icons found their way into such hiding spaces was during the Lutheran Reformation during 1517-1648. This was to save them from being destroyed. This particular saint seems to wear a Bishops hat which suggests that he was an important figure of the church at the time. It is obvious that the carver was very skilled based on the incredible details. The icon stands 12 inches tall. The sculpture had never been cleaned or restored and is in original condition. There are 2 visible damages. One of the ears of the cow is missing and on the back side of the sculpture is a piece that had been carved out. Why I do not know. I have not yet been able to verify the actual saint but have been told that it may be Saint Bernard. I am completely aware of the fact that the amount I am asking for this piece is well above the likely value. However, I am looking for someone who not only recognizes the unique and rare opportunity to own such a piece in this part of the world, but also has the compassion and resources to pass on some of their wealth to my son and I to help us get out of a life of poverty. The alternative to selling this piece would be to pass it down to my son. This surely is a wonderful thought but on the other hand won't provide us with the possibility to own our own home. I thought about this for many years and had many discussions with my son if we should keep it or sell it. Well, here it is for trade or sale ...