Description:

Important Madonna
Champagne or Burgundy
Around 1440/50
Carved hardwood
Original paint
Height 114 cm

Madonna statues enjoyed great popularity, especially in the Middle Ages, and are still highly sought-after collectibles. Nevertheless, masterful pieces like this one are a special rarity: the Madonna sculpture still exhibits some characteristics of 14th century sculpture from northern France, but due to stylistic parallels it can be dated around 1440-1450 and was probably made in Burgundy, France. The monumental size of 114 cm indicates the important function of the Madonna sculpture; possibly she served as a central figure in the center shrine of an altar or was placed in another prominent position within the church interior.
In the typical manner of northern French sculptures, Mary stands in a frontal majestic pose, with the lunging feet peeking out from under the heavy robe, evidence of forward motion. The slight S-curve is emphasized by the large, sweeping cupped folds that slope from the hips in a dynamic facon. In her left hand, with long-limbed, manneristically shaped fingers, she holds a pear as a symbol of fertility, while with her right she holds the naked or almost transparently clothed infant Jesus pressed against her. The chubby-cheeked child has his left arm extended forward, probably in salute, and presents his palm to the viewer; with his right hand he holds tightly a dove balanced on Jesus' knee. A popular attribute of Mary, the dove is either a symbol of Mary's chastity or representative of a soul redeemed by Christ. The child's little legs are depicted kicking playfully, with Jesus using them to present the sole of his right foot; a feature that dates back to Byzantine icon depictions. The child's playfulness contrasts with Mary's serious, distinguished expression.Rooted in French ivory small sculpture, the type of Madonna with an open mantle formed in northern France and enjoyed great popularity, especially in Burgundy. Here, too, the sky-blue mantle - a symbolic color of Mary as Queen of Heaven - is open, revealing the voluminous undergarment with all manner of ornamental accessories such as gilded cords, buttons, hems and belt. The white of the cloak emphasizes Mary's purity, while the jewelry attests to highly luxurious fabrication. The characteristic headdress under the high crown is also particularly ornately crafted with French fleur-de-lis. Mary is clearly depicted here as a noblewoman and was probably commissioned by a wealthy patron due to its museum quality.

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November 15, 2021 5:00 PM CET
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