Third Quarter Of The 14th Century - Workshop Of The Master Of The Magi Of Fabriano - Linden - Madonna And Child

An extraordinary Enthroned Madonna and Child, a linden wood sculpture from the workshop of the Master of the Magi of Fabriano, third quarter of the 14th century.
The sculpture displays the characteristics of Central Italian Gothic art, with typical influences from France, such as the crown.
Beneath the paint and plaster (present only in minimal traces), the carving is firm and decisive yet does not obscure the extreme refinement of the lines and forms, which in Umbria, Abruzzo, and the Marche region is rendered with a thick layer of plaster.
In this particular example, given its extraordinary quality, this refinement can be fully appreciated even without the plaster finish.
The Virgin’s face, despite its solemnity, appears gentle thanks to the lines of her eyes and face, which is framed by a splendid veil from which two locks of hair peek out at the top.
Standing on his own two feet, the Child holds a bird in his hand and has a serious yet engaged and present expression.
The drapery of the garments is characteristic of the workshop of origin and displays exceptional quality in its rendering.
The throne is simple and square.
Thanks to very thick layers of plaster—some of which are original—that have always protected it from external elements and woodworms, the sculpture is, all things considered, in excellent condition.
There is only one missing piece on the right arm of both the Virgin and the Child, as well as a lobe from the central element of the crown, which has, however, been restored.
The sculpture, with its distinctive features of a workshop that translated the Gothic style from France into a more rustic, elaborate, and heterogeneous style, is thus an exceptionally well-preserved example of the highest quality.
Dimensions: 37 x 37 x 78 cm