Flanders (Mechelen), second half of the 17th century

Carved, polychromed and gilded wood.

34,5 x 13 x 7,5 (base 41,5 cm)

This delicate sculpture depicts the Virgin Mary standing, holding the Child Jesus in her left arm, who is holding an open book which they are tenderly sharing. The image corresponds to the model known as poupée de Malines, small devotional carvings produced in series in the workshops of the Flemish city of Mechelen (Mechelen) during the 15th and 16th centuries, mainly for export, especially to southern Europe and the Americas.

The figure is notable for its brilliant polychromy and rich gilt decoration, visible in the Virgin’s deep blue-green mantle with stylised vegetal motifs, and in the Child’s incarnate robe. Both figures have serene faces, with idealised features and a restrained expressiveness typical of devotional Baroque language. Their gesture with the book suggests a Christological symbolism, linking Mary as the bearer of the divine Word.

The sculpture stands on a simple moulded base and retains much of its original polychromy, which allows us to appreciate the quality of its workmanship and the technical refinement of the Malineses’ workshops. These sculptures were objects of private veneration and formed part of domestic or convent oratories, fulfilling both a devotional and decorative function.