Woman with broom and coin ("The Parable of the Lost Piece of Silver") 1775 - 1785

This meticulously crafted earthenware figure of a woman, sculpted by Ralph Wood the Younger, presents a scene drawn from the Gospel of Luke. She embodies the parable of the lost piece of silver, searching diligently with her broom. The broom here is more than a simple household tool. It represents the diligence and effort required to recover what is lost or hidden. This motif echoes across cultures, where the act of sweeping is often associated with purification and the removal of negative influences. Think of ancient rituals where brooms were used to cleanse spaces before sacred ceremonies. Over time, this symbol has taken on new layers of meaning. The woman's focused expression, combined with the humble broom, evokes a profound sense of determination. Through her, we are reminded of the enduring human capacity for perseverance. It’s a cyclical progression, with the broom reappearing throughout time. It is no wonder that the symbol of searching and purifying remains so potently resonant across eras.