Virgin Immaculate Conception (circa 1800)

Our sculpture represents the Virgin Mary Immaculate Conception. According to Catholic dogma, this means that she was born preserved from original sin in order to give birth to Christ, who was to redeem the faults of that sin.
The Immaculate Conception is often depicted with specific attributes in Catholic religious art and liturgy. Indeed, she is often found standing on a globe, with a serpent under her feet, as our sculpture shows. This refers to Genesis 3:15, where God says that "the woman's offspring will crush the serpent's head", symbolising Mary's victory over sin and evil.

Our work, which probably dates from the 19th century, was created using the cartapesta technique. Also known as papier-mâché, this is a method that uses glued paper or cardboard to create three-dimensional objects. This technique has been widely used in Italy, particularly in the regions of Naples and Lecce, to make religious statues, puppets and decorations. With its glass eyes, its delicate, graceful face is reminiscent of ancient dolls.