Object Image

Reliquary Statuette of the Virgin and Child

A small rectangular cavity in the back of this sculpture reveals that it was originally made to serve as a reliquary (a container for relics).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