Terracotta Statuette - Black Virgin Of Puy-en-velay - Folk Art - Virgin And Child

Early 20th century Brives-Charensac terracotta (Peyronnel production) Dated 1932 This terracotta statuette, made by A. Peyronnel in 1932 for the jubilee of Notre-Dame du Puy, is a perfect example of 20th century religious folk art. The last master potter of Brives-Charensac (1875-1940), Peyronnel created a series of small Virgins for pilgrims, in a region historically famous for its production of religious ceramics, notably the Black Virgins. This unglazed piece, obtained by molding, is hollowed out on the inside and has no relief on the back, but reveals a rich decoration on the front. The Virgin is represented in a cloak decorated with raised ruffles (decorative fluting), completed by large pearl necklaces around her neck and that of the Child Jesus she is carrying. The two crowns that surmount the heads of the Mother and Child are domed and sculpted, adding a discreet majesty to this representation. Unlike some other statuettes in the same series, this version has not been covered with a varnish, thus allowing one to better appreciate the raw texture of the terracotta and the meticulous work of the craftsman. This statuette is a true object of devotion and a testimony to Auvergne religious craftsmanship, testifying to the intimate link between faith and craftsmanship in Puy-en-Velay. Iconography consulted: Iconography of the Black Virgin of Puy, catalog of the Puy exhibition, Baptistery Saint-Jean. 1983 - P.231 Dimensions: Height: 12 cm ALL DELIVERIES ARE MADE BY DHL EXPRESS ONLY!