Figure of -Our Lady of Sorrows- 17th-18th century

This small figure of the Virgin Mary, or Our Lady of Sorrows, is carved from a single piece of wood, probably by a craftsperson working in a religious workshop. Notice the wood grain, which orients us to the maker’s process. The figure has been carefully shaped to align with the grain, making it visually pop, and also making the sculpture more structurally sound. The folds of Mary's garments have been created with a sharp tool, and this gives a beautiful dynamic rhythm to the work. But at the same time, notice that the face is relatively simplified. There's something quite schematic about the rendering. This suggests a workshop setting, where an artisan was making many of these, perhaps for sale to pilgrims or local churchgoers. The degree of handcraft involved makes this a unique object. Considering its intimate scale and devotional nature, it prompts us to consider the relationship between craft, mass production, and individual belief.