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14th Century French Gothic Madonna and Child Carved Wood Sculpture

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:300.00 USD Estimated At:3,000.00 - 5,000.00 USD
14th Century French Gothic Madonna and Child Carved Wood Sculpture
Late 14th century Gothic polychrome wood sculpture of the Madonna and Child in Majesty, attributed to the Ile de France School, a leading artistic tradition centered around Paris from the late 12th to early 15th century. Carved from a single block of wood and hollowed from the reverse, this piece exemplifies medieval sculptural practices intended to reduce weight and prevent cracking. The Virgin is crowned as Queen of Heaven and holds a symbolic apple in her right hand, referencing her role as the New Eve. The Christ Child sits on her lap, originally making a gesture or holding a sacred object, though some elements have been lost over time. The work exhibits hallmarks of the Gothic style: an elongated and serene visage, rhythmic drapery, and a frontal, hieratic composition. Traces of the original polychrome surface remain, indicating its once vibrant presence in a church or private devotional setting. This sculpture demonstrates the refined craftsmanship of the period, with expressive facial modeling and stylized gestures that align with the devotional solemnity of late medieval Marian imagery.

Issued: Late 14th century
Dimensions: 33.75"H
Country of Origin: France

Condition: Age related wear. Loss of surface polychromy, minor damage to hands and features, and visible worm holes. The Virgin's right hand has been reattached with a visible screw, likely following an earlier detachment. It remains slightly loose to the touch but is structurally secure.