France, Early 15th Century: Sculpture Of Virgin Of Calvary H 86 Cm

This large carved wooden figure of the Virgin from a Calvary scene—or *Mater Dolorosa* (Virgin of Sorrows)—is a 15th-century French work, characteristic of statuary from the late medieval period.

Monumental sculpture embraced the theme of the Crucifixion, or Calvary, at an early stage. Three figures stand at the heart of every Calvary: Christ, Saint John, and Mary. Mary is depicted standing, traditionally paired with Saint John the Evangelist.

She wears a long, round-necked gown that reveals the pointed tips of her shoes. Her long veil—forming both a mantle and a head covering—is held by her hands on either side and falls in numerous sharp, angular folds and vertical, organ-pipe-like pleats, a style of draping characteristic of the Gothic period.
Her downcast gaze conveys a restrained sorrow, imbued with great gentleness and solemnity.

The sculpture is in good condition, showing signs of age-related wear.
Later polychromy; small later base.
Dimensions: H 86 cm / W 28 cm / D 17 cm.

Provenance:
major private collection.