Hand-Painted Bisque Figure of the Virgin of Luján, in Domed Reliquary Vitrine

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Description

Spanish Hand-Painted Bisque Marian Devotional Figure in Original Mahogany Domed Vitrine, Buenos Aires, Circa 1900, Two Pieces: the devotional figure … Read more Spanish Hand-Painted Bisque Marian Devotional Figure in Original Mahogany Domed Vitrine, Buenos Aires, Circa 1900, Two Pieces: the devotional figure and the Reliquary Case

This Spanish hand-painted bisque Marian devotional figure in its original mahogany domed vitrine is a beautifully preserved example of early 20th-century Catholic devotional art, retaining its complete presentation with the original glazed display case, elaborate gilt halo, richly dressed figure, and period rosary. Measuring 18.5 inches high, the Virgin stands before a remarkable architectural aureole bearing painted inscriptions referencing "La Virgen de Luján," the patroness of Argentina, suggesting the figure was created for the Argentine devotional market while reflecting Spanish artistic traditions.

The serene figure is modeled in finely hand-painted matte bisque porcelain with delicately sculpted facial features, expressive downcast glass eyes, softly blushed cheeks, and gracefully carved hands emerging from luxurious embroidered vestments. She wears flowing ivory satin robes embellished with blue floral embroidery, gilt metallic lace cuffs, antique lace edging, and a matching veil cascading over her shoulders. Draped between her hands is an original antique rosary composed of pale wooden beads with devotional medals that enhance the authenticity and spiritual presence of the figure.

Behind the Virgin rises an impressive gilt polychrome halo featuring radiating stars, jeweled cabochons, and inscribed rays that include the words "La," "Virgen," "de," and "Luján," creating an extraordinary visual focal point. The elaborate halo symbolizes the heavenly glory traditionally associated with Marian imagery and transforms the sculpture into an architectural devotional shrine.

Equally desirable is the original mahogany domed vitrine, crafted with a glazed front door, matching side glass panels, a molded plinth base, and an original brass pull key. Designed to protect treasured religious figures from dust while allowing them to remain continuously on display, this type of private devotional cabinet was commonly found in affluent Catholic homes throughout Spain and Latin America. The door closes securely, although the lock is no longer operational.

The reverse retains the original retailer's label reading:

"Gran Casa de Ornamentos
Jose Febrés y Sagarra e Hijos
Buen Orden esq. Europa
Buenos Aires."

This historic label identifies one of Buenos Aires' distinguished ecclesiastical furnishing and religious goods dealers, known for supplying churches, chapels, and private residences with imported devotional objects and liturgical furnishings during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The surviving label provides valuable provenance and firmly places the shrine within the rich tradition of Catholic devotional culture in Argentina.

Dimensions:
Reliquary Figure: 18.5 H × 11 W × 6 D in.
Mahogany Domed Vitrine: 24 H × 14.5 W × 9.75 D in.

Condition:
Very good antique condition with age-appropriate wear. The original hand-painted bisque figure, embroidered garments, lace trim, gilt halo, antique rosary, retailer's label, and mahogany vitrine remain together. Minor wear consistent with age. The vitrine door closes securely; the original lock is present but no longer functions. See less