Why did late Gothic sculptors create highly realistic details in wood?

Late Gothic sculptors utilized wood as a medium because it allowed for the creation of intricate, thin, open, and spiky forms that were impossible to achieve in stone.1

During the late Gothic period, artists—particularly in Germany and Spain—embraced a style characterized by highly complicated and elaborate detail. Sculptors sought to display their technical virtuosity by utilizing every available opportunity to incorporate realistic expressions and fine details into their work. This trend was further encouraged by the dual influences of painting and architecture, which favored such ornate and expressive compositions.1

While some regions, such as France, maintained more decorative restraint, the use of wood enabled masters like Bernt Notke to push the boundaries of realism, as seen in his monumental St. George and the Dragon, which even incorporated real antlers to enhance the lifelike quality of the sculpture.1