Virgin and Child 1728

This terracotta sculpture of the Virgin and Child was crafted by Walter Pompe in the 18th century. The composition is dominated by the figures of Mary and the infant Jesus, an enduring symbol of maternal love and divine incarnation. The motif of the Madonna and Child echoes through the corridors of art history, from ancient Egyptian depictions of Isis and Horus to Byzantine icons. The tender embrace, the protective gesture—these are not merely artistic conventions but profound expressions of the human psyche. Consider the *’Maria Lactans’* images, where Mary nurses the infant Jesus: a powerful symbol that underscores both the humanity and divinity of Christ. Such images tap into our collective memory, evoking primal emotions. The act of holding and nurturing a child transcends time, resonating deeply within us. The cyclical recurrence of this motif in diverse cultures serves as a reminder of the eternal human experiences and the enduring power of visual symbols.