Madonna of Bruges, Baby Jesus by Michelangelo

Madonna and Jesus statue, known as the Madonna of Bruges by Michelangelo, originally sculpted during 1501-1504.

The Madonna of Bruges is the only sculpture by Michelangelo to leave Italy during his lifetime. It was purchased in 1506 by a rich textiles merchant from Bruges and later bequeathed to that city. It had originally been intended for the Cathedral of Siena. However due to conflict with the principal, Francesco Picollonini (later to become Pope Pius III), the sculpture was never delivered.

The depiction of the overly familiar theme of Madonna with the baby Jesus is characterized by Mary's introverted expression. Her face is remarkably similar to that of the Mary in The Pieta which was sculpted five years earlier. The assumption is therefore that Michelangelo used the same life model. The movement of the child, with its hair sculpted away from the body of the statue and Mary's robe herald the transition to the Baroque period which emphasized dynamism and expression.

This reproduction of the Madonna of Bruges with Baby Jesus Statue is part of the Parastone Replica Collection. Made from resin, white with subtle grey veins to evoke marble, description card included

Madonna and Jesus statue size: 9"H x 4.25"W x 3.5"D.