Madonna and Child
Unknown Artist
c. 1400–1410
Medium
lindenwood with polychromy
Dimensions
h. 59.1 cm
Classification
Sculpture
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Severance A. Millikin
Accession Number
1959.339
About this artwork
This sculpture belongs to a type known as a Schöne Madonna or "Beautiful Virgin," popularized in central Europe during the late 1300s and early 1400s. The Virgin’s stance adheres to an S-curve as she stands with one leg straight and the other slightly bent at the knee. Her body is hidden beneath long, voluminous, draping garments. These so-called Beautiful Madonnas are among the most popular creations of Bohemian art and were in high demand for churches and private veneration.