Virgin and Child
Artist/Culture
French
Datefirst half of the 1300s
Mediumpolychromed limestone
Dimensions47 cm (18 1/2 in.)
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineAustin S. and Sarah C. Garver Fund
Terms
Object number1949.29
DescriptionStanding, crowned, holding the Child on her left arm admiring a flower. Remains of red and blue polychromy. Hollowed ogival reliquary at the back. Grown slightly damaged.Label TextThe relationship of the Virgin to her infant son has provided artists with continual inspiration. This small statue, probably intended for private devotions, protrays Mary crowned as Queen of Heaven. She holds a flower at which she and the child gaze. While many of Mary's virtues were symbolized by flowers, this blossom may be the flower from the rod of Jesse. It reminds the viewer that the most important descendant of Jesse was Mary, to whom the savior would be born. The small stature of the Virgin combined with the deep recessed and angular folds in her robe suggest a Netherlandish origin for this sculpture.ProvenanceJoseph Brummer Estate, Parke-Bernet Galleries, NY
On View
Not on view
