Statue, Mater Dolorosa - 51 cm - Earthenware






Holds a degree in art history; over six years cataloguing and appraising antiques.
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Description from the seller
Splendid and imposing sacred terracotta sculpture, modeled and painted in the cold process, depicting the Madonna Addolorata (Mater Dolorosa), dating to the second half of the 19th century (the 1800s).
The work stands out for the extraordinary expressive delicacy of the face, characterized by a downcast gaze and an intense contained drama, typical of 19th-century devotion. The Virgin is represented standing, with her hands delicately clasped on the lap as a sign of deep affliction and acceptance of pain. The drapery of the garments is fluid and well-structured, enriched on the chest and the edges of the mantle by precious traces of the original gold leaf, which create a fascinating chromatic contrast with the deep blue of the mantle.
The work presents a remarkable stage presence thanks to its significant height of 51 cm, a size that places it among high-commission pieces intended for private chapels, noble niches, or domestic altars. The base still bears the ancient firing hole and the structural accommodation.
A piece of great charm and authenticity, ideal for collectors of ancient sacred art and Italian sculpture.
Technical details:
• Provenance: Italy (Lombard antique market)
The work presents general conditions coherent with the period, showing the charm and typical signs of the passage of time, with superficial wear and small losses of color that do not prejudice, but rather enhance, the authenticity and historicity of the piece. No recent invasive restoration visible. The photos are an integral part of the description.
Seller's Story
Splendid and imposing sacred terracotta sculpture, modeled and painted in the cold process, depicting the Madonna Addolorata (Mater Dolorosa), dating to the second half of the 19th century (the 1800s).
The work stands out for the extraordinary expressive delicacy of the face, characterized by a downcast gaze and an intense contained drama, typical of 19th-century devotion. The Virgin is represented standing, with her hands delicately clasped on the lap as a sign of deep affliction and acceptance of pain. The drapery of the garments is fluid and well-structured, enriched on the chest and the edges of the mantle by precious traces of the original gold leaf, which create a fascinating chromatic contrast with the deep blue of the mantle.
The work presents a remarkable stage presence thanks to its significant height of 51 cm, a size that places it among high-commission pieces intended for private chapels, noble niches, or domestic altars. The base still bears the ancient firing hole and the structural accommodation.
A piece of great charm and authenticity, ideal for collectors of ancient sacred art and Italian sculpture.
Technical details:
• Provenance: Italy (Lombard antique market)
The work presents general conditions coherent with the period, showing the charm and typical signs of the passage of time, with superficial wear and small losses of color that do not prejudice, but rather enhance, the authenticity and historicity of the piece. No recent invasive restoration visible. The photos are an integral part of the description.
