France, 1st Half Of The 16th , Sculpture Of St. Anne Or The Education Of The Virgin 42 Cm

This sculpture of St. Anne (mother of the Virgin Mary), a French work from the 16th century, shows her teaching her daughter to read.
The book symbolizes knowledge, especially that of the Scriptures, as well as wisdom.
The cult of St. Anne, patron saint of the Bretons, developed in the West at the time of the Crusades and this veneration really took off in the second half of the 16th century.
This theme would continue to be illustrated by artists until the 19th century and would serve to promote the education of girls.

In this sculptural group, St. Anne is seated on a throne and presents the open book to her daughter, holding it in both hands. Dressed in a long green coat with pleats open over a long dress, she wears a veil and a wimple.
Mary is represented in profile, wearing a long pleated dress, her long hair loose, placing both hands on the Book.

In very good condition considering its age.
Comes from a large private collection
Dimensions H 42 cm / L 21 cm / l 12cm.