Statuary, Fragment - Stone Head - Representation Of The Devil Or Demon - Early Period

Late 14th Century Southern France This fragment sculpted in shell limestone from a southern school in the south of France is fully in line with the late Gothic style of the late 14th century. A striking testimony to a time when religious art served as much to educate as to impress, this sculpted head intensely depicts a demonic or diabolical representation, marked by exaggerated and expressive human features. A Typical Representation of Medieval Gothic In the 14th century, Gothic reached its peak in terms of sculptural expressiveness. Here, the striking characteristics of this head clearly evoke the demonic iconography specific to this period: • Pointed ears, a recurring symbol of the bestial and evil character of the demon. • Exaggerated and stylized features, amplifying the disturbing aspect of the character. • Ambiguous expression, mixing mockery and malevolence, frozen in stone with remarkable intensity. These grotesque figures had an educational and spiritual function: they reminded the faithful of the dangers of sin, served as a warning against the temptations of the Evil One, and depicted the perpetual battle between Good and Evil. A Fragment from a Larger Scene This sculpted face was most certainly part of a larger narrative scene, probably a representation of the Last Judgement or an infernal vision. Medieval sculptors knew how to organize these compositions with precision to strike the mind and reinforce their symbolic impact. A Work of the Southern School • Material: Shell limestone, extracted locally, typical of the Gard and its surroundings. • Technique: Sculpture in the round, with particular attention paid to the details of the face and the intensity of the expression. • Style: Characteristic of southern Gothic, where symbolic power takes precedence over formal academicism. A Spiritual and Educational Tool Both frightening and captivating, this sculpted head was intended to: • Embody the Evil One and his seductions. • Warn the faithful of the consequences of sin. • Reinforce the solemnity and power of the religious message. Condition and Conservation Despite the centuries, this fragment presents: • An ancient natural patina, conferring remarkable authenticity. • A natural polishing due to the weather, softening the contours while preserving the main features of the face. • A striking presence, where each sculpted detail continues to captivate the eye. Dimensions: Height: 23 cm Delivery: ALL DELIVERIES ARE MADE BY DHL EXPRESS ONLY.