Enthroned Virgin and Child

c. 1480
(Spanish, active c. 1475–1505)
Overall: 31.5 x 22.5 x 16 cm (12 3/8 x 8 7/8 x 6 5/16 in.)
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Did You Know?

This sculpture was possibly made for Queen Isabella, the Spanish ruler who sponsored Christopher Columbus.

Description

The seated Virgin Mary with Christ is one of the most popular themes in Christian art of the Middle Ages. Alabaster was an ideal material to depict the fleshiness of Jesus, the lush folds of Mary’s cloak, and the fine details of the throne and gown. Christ is reaching for something in his mother’s hand that is now unrecognizable because alabaster tends to break or wear away quickly. It may have been a book or a piece of fruit. Given its small size, it is likely that this sculpture was intended for private use.
Enthroned Virgin and Child

Enthroned Virgin and Child

c. 1480

Gil de Siloé

(Spanish, active c. 1475–1505)
Spain, Burgos, 15th century

Videos

Mother and Son

How It Was Used

A Portrait?

Queen Isabella the Catholic

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