Immaculate Conception 

Alonzo Cano made this Immaculate Conception from wood, likely sometime in the mid-17th century. The life-size sculpture represents the Virgin Mary standing on cherubic clouds, hands clasped in prayer. Cano would have used carving tools to sculpt the fine details of the face and drapery. The gold leaf finish suggests the figure’s divinity and spiritual importance, while the paint adds to the sense of realism. Beyond its religious meaning, this statue also highlights the role of skilled labor in art production at the time. Creating a piece like this required a deep understanding of materials, techniques, and the human form. The intricate details and gilded surface reflect not only artistic talent but also the economic systems that supported such craftsmanship. The Immaculate Conception invites us to consider the value of materials, making, and context in understanding art, blurring the lines between fine art and craft.