Reliquary Statuette of the Virgin and Child
Unknown Artist
A small rectangular cavity in the back of this sculpture reveals that it was originally made to serve as a reliquary (a container for relics). In her left hand the Virgin holds a pear, a symbol of the peace and love of Christ.
Credit: The Mary Spedding Milliken Memorial Collection, Gift of William Mathewson Milliken
c. 1330
Painted lindenwood
40.7cm
1973.143
Image and text: The Cleveland Museum of Art, 2024
Where you'll find this
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Permanent collection