Colonial Polychrome Marble Sculpture. Madonna And Child With Cherub

Colonial Polychrome Marble Sculpture – Madonna and Child with Cherub

Small polychrome marble sculpture, made in the 18th century, likely within a colonial context of Hispanic-Philippine or South American influence. The Madonna is depicted frontally, with baroque swirling drapery and hair carved in fine, linear strands. The Child, resting on her left arm, retains a faint golden halo.

At the base, a cherub’s head emerges from a small sculpted cloud, following an iconographic model often found in colonial sacred art. On the Virgin’s chest, a red-painted decoration—now partially worn—suggests a stylized heart, likely a reference to the cult of the Sacred Heart.

The back shows vertical strokes of red and brown polychromy, a common decorative technique in certain colonial workshops.

Date: 18th century

Material: Polychrome marble

Height: approx. 10 cm

Condition: Polychromy partially preserved; losses and abrasions, especially on the faces. Beautiful aged patina.