Seat of wisdom (Sedes Sapientiae) Carved wooden... Lot 37

Seat of wisdom (Sedes Sapientiae) Carved wooden sculpture. Possibly from Bourgogne. France. Romanesque. First half of the 13th century. The Dijon Musée d’Art Sacré has a Madonna and Child in Majesty in its collection (Nº MAS2002.3.1) and the similarities between that sculpture and this one in our auction are sufficient to date the sculpture and situate it in that region. Daniel Russo, from the university of Bourgogne, Dijon, describes the museum piece as “A Madonna which fits into the stylistic traditon of mosan art of the 1200s. It is remarkable for its wide curves, regular folds and its drapery which clings to the body…” these are stylistic aspects which can be clearly seen in our sculpture. She also wears a long trimmed cloak, closed below the collar with a brooch. This cape allows the fine dress which falls to her feet to be seen, forming fine and regular folds at each side of the Madonna´s feet, the drapery fitting the body tightly. Her long hair is just a suggestion, and along with her veil, is fastened with a diadem. The hieratic face is of large proportions, the shoulders are narrow, the forehead high and the neck is long. Her expression is solemn and proud. Her right hand is a later addition. The left hand is missing. Height: 63 cm.