Holy water font - the 20th century - Madonna with Child - 29 cm

Holy-water font. The iconography of the Madonna and Child embracing (often also defined as the Madonna of the Embrace or Eleusa / Virgin of Tenderness in the Byzantine tradition) represents one of the most intimate and profound themes in sacred art. In these works, Mary and Jesus are not depicted in rigid or regal poses, but in a moment of tender physical and emotional contact, with gazes drawn close together, cheek to cheek, or in a protective embrace. There are three cherubic angels on the sides and two doves, all hand-painted."