19th Century French Polychrome and Giltwood Virgin Mary Statue

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This finely carved antique devotional statue depicts the Virgin Mary in the traditional Immaculate Conception iconography. Crafted in France circa … Read more This finely carved antique devotional statue depicts the Virgin Mary in the traditional Immaculate Conception iconography. Crafted in France circa 1860, likely in the Pyrenees region, the figure is hand-carved in wood and retains a richly aged combination of gilt and polychrome decoration.

Mary is shown standing gracefully with her hands extended in a gesture of blessing and intercession. Her softly modeled face is framed by long hair and a flowing veil, while the deeply carved folds of her robe create elegant movement throughout the figure. The garment is highlighted with warm gilt decoration, beautifully contrasted by the natural flesh tones of the face, hands, and feet.

Beneath Mary’s feet is a blue globe encircled by a serpent, a powerful element of Marian symbolism traditionally associated with the triumph of good over evil and the Immaculate Conception. The sculptor has given particular attention to the serpent, drapery, facial expression, and delicate hands, lending the piece both devotional presence and folk-art character.

The antique statue is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, with expected rubbing, minor losses, and wear to the original gilding and polychrome surface. The resulting patina gives the sculpture See less