ADVENT CALENDAR DAY 11Polychromed wood sculpture of Mary and the Christ Child made in 12th-century F

ADVENT CALENDAR DAY 11

Polychromed wood sculpture of Mary and the Christ Child made in 12th-century France. Glencairn Museum, Bryn Athyn, PA, 12.SP.07.

This medieval sculpture features the Christ Child, who resembles a miniature adult, seated in Mary’s lap. Both of the figures wear a crown. Visually, Mary is positioned as a throne for the Child, while her hands present her Son to the world. In medieval Christian belief, Mary is here serving as a throne for the incarnation of Divine Wisdom. Christ’s humanity and divinity are both expressed in this single image, which is intended to express the miracle of the Incarnation.   

The Christ Child holds a book in His left hand, while raising His right hand in blessing. A fantastic beast serves as Mary’s footrest. Statues such as this one sometimes left the church and were carried in processions, which encouraged public devotion.  

Every day, from December 1 through December 25, a new work of Nativity art from the Glencairn Museum collection will appear on the home page of our Advent calendar (Follow the Star: A 2021 Advent Calendar). To receive these in your newsfeed, follow our social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tumblr).