The Mourning Virgin 1739 - 1749

This sculpture, made of porcelain by the Capodimonte Porcelain Manufactory, presents a vision of intense emotion. Clad in draped robes, the Virgin’s upward gaze and clasped hands evoke a palpable sense of sorrow. The almost monochromatic palette emphasizes the purity and emotional intensity of the scene. Light plays across the smooth surfaces, accentuating the delicate modeling of the figure and the flowing lines of the drapery. The Virgin's pose and the sculptural form invite contemplation. Consider the historical context: porcelain production was a significant marker of artistic and technological achievement. By manipulating this medium to convey deep emotion, the artists engage with the cultural and philosophical ideas of the time. The sculpture’s composition, with its emphasis on verticality and dynamic lines, functions not just aesthetically but also as part of a larger discourse about faith, suffering, and the human condition. Art invites ongoing interpretation and re-interpretation.