The Infant Jesus In Majesty On Silver Clouds, 18th-century Polychrome Wood

A rare and moving depiction of the Infant Jesus in majesty, seated on a spectacular mass of silvery clouds, dating from the first half of the 18th century.
This remarkable work from southern France attests to the quality of Baroque religious sculpture intended for private devotion or processions.

This iconography remains particularly rare.
The Infant Jesus is depicted in a pose of blessing and heavenly glory, enthroned above the clouds in a true scene of apotheosis. The sculptor has successfully imbued the figure with all the grace and spontaneity of a young child, featuring a face of great gentleness and particularly harmonious proportions.

The gaze is brought to life by superb sulfur-colored eyes, lending the sculpture a striking presence. The finely carved hair, slender arms, and delicate loincloth adorned with elegant polychrome painting attest to the artisan’s talent.
The piece has retained its original polychrome painting and silver plating, displaying a magnificent antique patina. The clouds, beautifully carved from linden wood, resemble true wooden lace thanks to their particularly refined modeling. They rest on their original gilded wooden base, made of fir.

The statue features several particularly interesting elements:
four holes with their original pegs on the reverse side. These features suggest that it could have been adorned with a radiant halo, a canopy, or even dressed in various liturgical garments depending on the religious feast day, suggesting it may have been used in processions.
The work has retained its original state of preservation, with some wear and minor losses of polychromy, as well as slight damage to certain fingers—all of which are entirely consistent with its age. If the future buyer so desires, these minor losses can be restored in our workshop, but the piece as a whole currently exhibits a particularly appealing authenticity and harmony.

An 18th-century religious sculpture featuring rare iconography, combining high-quality carving, beautiful antique polychromy, and remarkable decorative appeal.

Dimensions:

• Height: 36 cm
• Base diameter: 14 cm

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