Lead Plaque - Virgin Of Loreto - 16th Century Renaissance - Haute Epoque Religion 16

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Lead plaquette, Virgin of Loreto, 16th century

This plaquette was probably a souvenir of the pilgrimage to Loreto, in the Marche region. According to tradition, the Santa Casa, the house where the Virgin was born, was brought to Italy by angels in 1294. This building was actually sent from Nazareth by the Byzantine prince Nicephorus I Doukas in 1291, then reassembled in Loreto in 1294. The growing influx of pilgrims explains the construction of a large basilica.
The dissemination of the Marian image to pilgrims was mainly based on engravings, pendants, and metal plaquettes. This model has been attributed to Andrea Sansovino, his workshop, or to Aurelio Lombardi. The Virgin is depicted seated and holding the Infant Jesus on her lap, in front of a stylized representation of the basilica supported by angels.

Very good condition, with slight deformation in the lower left corner, three mounting holes.

Ref: Musée de la Renaissance, E.CL.20019 (bronze specimen)

Height: 16.2 cm
Width: 12.4 cm