Virgin and Child

Unknown

first quarter 14th century · Limestone with traces of paint and gilding · Medieval Art

Elevated high in his mother’s arms, the Christ Child holds the end of her belt, a gesture that may indicate the mystical marriage of Christ and his mother, a theme frequently mentioned in popular hymns and sermons. This detail is characteristic of similar sculptures from Normandy. Stylistic elements including the Virgin’s pose and the rendering of drapery folds buttress the attribution to Normandy.

Artist

Unknown

Date

first quarter 14th century

Medium

Limestone with traces of paint and gilding

Culture

French

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Bequest of George Blumenthal, 1941