Kruis en twee Mariabeelden van hout, opgesteld op een tentoonstelling over religieuze objecten uit de middeleeuwen en renaissance in 1864 in Mechelen before 1866

Joseph Maes captured this image in 1864, showcasing a cross and two wooden sculptures of Mary at a religious art exhibition in Mechelen. The artifacts are striking examples of wood carving, a tradition deeply rooted in both craft and religious expression. Note how the artist has skillfully manipulated the material. We can appreciate the textures and forms he has brought to life, from the smooth curves of Mary's robes to the intricate details of the cross. In a world increasingly dominated by industrial production, the presence of hand-carved objects speaks to a different kind of value, one rooted in individual skill, patience, and a connection to materials. The considerable labor involved in producing pieces like this is what gives them significance. By focusing on the craftsmanship and cultural context of these works, we can appreciate the skill involved in their production, and also understand how they embody the values of their time.