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19th Century Rare Black Madonna Figure

About the Item

19th Century Rare Black Madonna Figure A hand crafted and rare example of an early to mid-19th century black Madonna figure. Dressing in its original embroidered silk gown with gold threaded tassels. Real hair, glass eyes and brass fitted crown. The figure is made from hand painted terracotta and stood on a bespoke cast metal stand. The form underneath is supported by pine and hessian material as shown. Wearing a stunning brass and red stone brooch, a truly special religious and highly decorative example. Many of these representations of the Virgin started with fairer skin and became darker in colour over time. This can be a general effect of ageing materials, or a result of exposure to environmental factors, such as smoke from votive candles. Over time, these paintings and statues were associated with special properties, and pilgrims would make journeys to worship and be blessed in their presence. Churches in possession of a Black Madonna took increasing pride of their shrines, in some cases opting to preserve the new colouring rather than make restorations or even replicating the Madonnas with the darker tones they'd acquired over time. What's interesting is that, somewhere in the process of the Madonnas taking on a darker colour, believers seem to view the change as a visual manifestation of the effigies' heightened spiritual power. They aren't just seen as Madonnas that became darker over time – they're seen as having transcended into Black Madonnas, made black through the grace of God. Dimensions in inches: H 27” x W 8” x D 7” Age: 19th Century Origin: Unknown Condition: Fair This item shows natural wear and aging with faded surfaces paint and lost detail but in overall good condition for its age. The silk material is stained and discoloured in sections as shown. The crown is detachable and is firm in form with light loss and shape distortion as shown. This object is more than a 100 years old so please expect this in its overall condition. We strongly suggest reviewing all the photos provided as part of this advert and propose questions where sections are unclear to avoid disappointment upon purchase. A direct message usually takes 24 hours to answer. For multiple years we have sold antique items globally, please expect our items to show relevant age and natural wear, Items only restored due to breaks and major loss, and we always stipulate this in our condition report.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 27 in (68.58 cm)Width: 8 in (20.32 cm)Depth: 7 in (17.78 cm)
  • Style:
    Folk Art (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Terracotta,Hand-Crafted
  • Period:
    1840-1849
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1840
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor structural damages. Minor fading.
  • Seller Location:
    London, GB
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU4304241527412

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