Polychrome Carved Wooden Frame, "the Education Of The Virgin By Saint-anne", 18th Century

- Wooden frame (basswood) carved in one piece and depicting "The education of the Virgin by Saint-Anne", 18th century work.

- Absent from the Bible, Anne and Joachim, Mary's parents, are mentioned in apocryphal texts. The cult of Saint Anne developed in the West at the time of the Crusades, when relics were brought back from the East, where she had been venerated since the 6th century. In the second half of the 16th century, this veneration took off again, particularly in the context of the Counter-Reformation. Anne meeting Joachim at the Golden Gate, or teaching Mary the sacred texts, are the episodes in her life most frequently commissioned from painters and sculptors. The Virgin's education would remain a theme illustrated by artists until the 19th century, when it was used to promote the education of girls.

- On this intricately carved frame, Saint Anne is depicted instructing Mary. On the right, Saint Anne is seated on an armchair under a canopy, her feet resting on a small stool reminiscent of the scabellum of Roman emperors carried in majesty. With a protective arm, Saint-Anne surrounds the young Mary, seated on her mother's right knee. Mary holds an open book, to which St. Anne points with the index finger of her left hand. The book is oriented towards the viewer, whom they encourage to read it, alluding also to the intercessory role of the saints. On the left is a woman holding a flaming heart in her right hand, symbolizing the strength of the spirit of Love, and a finely-worked crozier in the other, representing piety. This is most probably Saint Elizabeth, symbolizing wisdom and spiritual transmission. The scene is accompanied by the presence of the Holy Spirit, represented by the dove on a cloud from which three large rays emanate.

- The scene takes place in an interior featuring both everyday objects (vase, decorative fabrics, books) and others directly alluding to faith: a prayer book and rosary are placed on a low table in the center. The latter also hosts a large bouquet of red flowers in the center. This subtly worked, colorfully animated interior reinforces the familiar, contemplative atmosphere of the scene, lending the whole a certain sensitivity conducive to contemplation.

- Good condition, some wear (see photos).

- Dimensions - height: 28.3 cm, width: 40 cm, depth: 4 cm