Virgin and Child c. 1325 - 1350

This sculpture of the Virgin and Child was made anonymously, carved in stone. Looking at the sculpture, you can see how the material dictates the aesthetic. The stone gives a sense of permanence and weight to the figures. The anonymous artist has masterfully used subtractive techniques to create the flowing drapery and delicate features, a process that demands precision, patience, and the skilled removal of material. While we don't know who created this artwork, it is important to remember the intense labor involved in quarrying, carving, and polishing the stone, all of which was done by hand. This involved craftspeople, the creators of the time, whose contributions often go unacknowledged. By considering the social context of production, we gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and cultural significance embodied in this sculpture. It challenges traditional notions of fine art by emphasizing the importance of materials, making, and the skilled hands that brought the artwork into existence.