Romanesque Ep (late 13th Century), Sedes Sapientiae, Museum, Virgin And Child In Polychrome Wood Majesty

HAUTE EPOQUE

Exceptional, rare and large statue of Virgin in majesty, holding the child Jesus on her left knee.
She can be linked to the classification group of SEDES SAPIENTIAE virgins from the Middle Ages, because she is seated on an armchair called  "Throne of Wisdom".

The representation of the Virgin Mary differs here from the models encountered in the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries, often more stylized and filiform, where the virgin presents the child Jesus on her knees, in a frontal manner, including the famous black virgins of Auvergne or of Cantal.

ROMAN / MEDIEVAL PERIOD The more rounded and naturalistic faces allow us to date it more precisely from the end of the 13th century or the very beginning of the 14th century (circa 1270 to 1320) 

The sculpture is spectacular, measuring 84cm (90cm high with its base).

Presumed origin Eastern Pyrenees or CATALONIA (extreme south of France or north of Spain)???

Very good general condition despite some parts attacked by xylophages (the piece has been treated and reinforced with hardener in the few weakest places: light conservation restoration).
Slight loss on the wrist of the child Jesus holding the Holy book in his left hand, it is very present. It is often rather the Virgin Mary who holds the Bible, as guardian of the holy texts and guide of the faithful. The right hand of the Virgin Mary is also absent, often brought back with glues that often do not tolerate humidity and temperature contrasts, and lost over the centuries.

The piece still retains large traces of successive polychromy: the layers of thicker to crusty colors sometimes cover the most vivid pictorial layer, which is much very thin, but very present and appearing very well preserved, as can be clearly seen in some places. However, I cautiously decided not to advance too far in this restoration stage, as it was risky and risked depriving this work of witnesses to its aesthetic and historical evolution.
The statue was soberly based on a hexagonal presentation base allowing for better protection and stability.
Very very beautiful shiny patina. The back of the sculpture is hollow, as was the case for statuary of this period.

I would obviously prefer hand delivery, rather than postal delivery by risky parcel, even secure. Please contact me to find out about the various possibilities (Paris, Chartres, Le Mans, Lyon, Bordeaux, Béziers, Avignon or Montpellier at least once every 2 months)

An exceptional Haute Epoque sculpture of Museum quality, as much as an impressive statue with its incredible hieratic presence.


Bibliography:
* "Romanesque And Gothic - Virgins And Child Restored From The Pyrenees-Orientales", by Jean-Bernard MATHON, Edition Silvana Editoriale, 2011
Exhibition catalog at the Chapelle Notre-Dame des Anges in Perpignan from September 15 to 17 December 2011.