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May 3, 2004
May 3, 2004
Female Bust
Female Bust
c. 1470-1500
Painted and gilded lindenwood
Without base: 44.2 cm (17 3/8 in.)
John L. Severance Fund 1962.284
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Description
This female bust is part of a series of three in the museum's collection. The identity of the figures has been speculated by scholars but without resolution. Because this and the other female busts in the series do not retain their attributes, it is difficult to know their original purpose. It is possible that they may have once formed a group of female saints from the predella of a large altarpiece. Since the sculpture is not carved in the round, this hypothesis has merit. Another recent proposal is that this and the other sculptures may be from a series of female busts representing the wise and foolish virgins referenced in Matthew 25:1-13, a parable by Jesus admonishing listeners to be spiritually prepared.
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