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Virgin from Ger facts for kids

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Virgin from Ger
Barcelona MNAC P1290727.JPG
Artist Anonymous
Year Second half of 12th century
Type Wood carving with polychrome in tempera and stucco reliefs
Dimensions 51.8 cm × 20.5 cm (20.4 in × 8.1 in)
Location Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, Barcelona

The Virgin from Ger is a beautiful wooden sculpture from the 12th century. It shows the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus. You can see this important artwork at the National Art Museum of Catalonia in Barcelona, Spain.

What is the Virgin from Ger Sculpture?

Wooden sculptures like the Virgin from Ger were very important in Romanesque churches. They were often placed near the altar, which is the main part of the church. These sculptures were put in special places. Sometimes, they even held relics, which are important religious objects. They could also be part of church events like processions.

A Special Example of Art

The Virgin from Ger is one of the most important wooden sculptures from the 12th century in Catalonia. Experts admire it for its style and the amazing way it was made. It is also in very good condition for such an old piece of art.

Mary as the Seat of Wisdom

This sculpture shows Mary as the "Sedes Sapientiae," which means "Seat of Wisdom." In this idea, Mary is like a throne for Jesus, who represents wisdom. That's why baby Jesus looks very straight and formal. He doesn't seem to be interacting with Mary in a playful way. Notice how soft Mary's face looks and how her clothes gently fold.

How the Sculpture Changed Over Time

Old photographs from the early 1900s show that this sculpture was changed. The baby Jesus was moved from one knee to the other. This is interesting because it shows us that old artworks were sometimes updated. They were changed to fit new religious ideas or ways of worship. This helps us understand how art was used and changed long after it was first created.

See also

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