Polychrome Terracotta Virgin And Child, France, 18th Century

Polychrome terracotta Virgin and Child, France, 18th century. An elegant representation of the crowned Virgin Mary holding the Infant Jesus, this polychrome terracotta statue testifies to a folk art imbued with fervor and delicacy. The Virgin, draped in a blue mantle highlighted with yellow, wears a cross on her breast, a symbol of her sacred mission. The Child, dressed in a white tunic with green highlights, rests peacefully in her arms, embodying divine tenderness. The original polychromy, still partially visible, reveals a vibrant and contrasting palette, typical of 18th-century religious art. The work is distinguished by its original condition, without restoration or cracks, retaining a few minor chips due to its age, which in no way detract from its charm or authenticity. These marks of time attest to its devotional use and enhance the poetic quality of its patina. The base bears the naive inscription "Holy Virgin," adding a vernacular dimension to this work of domestic piety. The piece belongs to a regional artisanal tradition, probably originating from a workshop in southwestern or central France, where polychrome terracotta was commonly used for statues of private worship. Dimensions: Height 31.5 cm, Diameter 10.8 cm, Weight 1.1 kg.