Vintage Religious Sculpture of the Virgin Mary in Carved Wood, 1920s

Details

Description

Large, unique, antique folk art religious sculpture in wood, entirely hand-carved, Alpine or Austro-Tyrolean, circa 1900-1930. It depicts the Virgin … Read more Large, unique, antique folk art religious sculpture in wood, entirely hand-carved, Alpine or Austro-Tyrolean, circa 1900-1930. It depicts the Virgin Mary standing, resting on a crescent moon crushing a serpent. This iconography traditionally corresponds to the Immaculate Conception, a popular theme in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The figure has a gentle face and flowing hair, draped in ample, flowing fabric. The wood, likely linden, is stained and polished, now displaying a warm, satiny patina ranging from dark brown to burgundy. The underside of the base shows traces of tools and previous work, as well as illegible inscriptions, probably later additions.

Height: 44 cm, maximum width: 17 cm, maximum depth: 14 cm. In good overall condition, a natural crack in the wood runs from the side of the head, down the torso and abdomen, and then under the sleeve to the side of the base. The tip of one hand has a small chip, and some signs of wear are visible on the other hand and the base. These flaws are minor and consistent with the age and use of the piece. Approximately 800-900 grams. See less