Artwork Page for Enthroned Virgin with the Writing Christ Child

Details / Information for Enthroned Virgin with the Writing Christ Child

Enthroned Virgin with the Writing Christ Child

c. 1400
Measurements
Overall: 44.8 x 31.5 x 15 cm (17 5/8 x 12 3/8 x 5 7/8 in.)
Weight: 19.051 kg (42 lbs.)
Credit Line
Public Domain
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Here the Virgin is sitting on a highly decorated pillow.

Description

This sculpture belongs to a tradition of seated Virgins that were prominent in Netherlandish art in the decades around 1400, and by extension may be associated with the Valois courts at Paris, Dijon, and Bourges. The theme of the Christ child who writes into an open book or onto a vellum banderole emerged during the third quarter of the 14th century and had great appeal among ecclesiastical and aristocratic clients. It undoubtedly refers to the educating and nurturing role of the mother in teaching the child, but also to the future position of the adult Christ as author and teacher. The small scale of this sculpture and the fact that its back is uncarved suggest that it was made for a small alcove or niche, appropriate in the intimate setting of a small chapel or oratory. The sculpture would have primarily been viewed from the front and perhaps from slightly below.
A limestone and polychromy sculpture depicts the Virgin Mary seated on a wide throne with tasseled cushions. Mary, with light skin and wavy hair under a gilded crown, wears a muted green cloak over a tan gown falling in deep folds. Her head tilts toward the Christ Child on our right, who writes on a scroll. Weathered and chipped pigments reveal light brown stone beneath their pale skin tones and serene expressions.

Enthroned Virgin with the Writing Christ Child

c. 1400

Franco-Netherlandish, active Paris(?), 15th century

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