Virgin of Jeanne d’Evreux
Factual Information:
From: Saint-Denis, France
Period: 1339
Period: 1339
General Information:
Some of the most popular artworks of the time were statuettes of sacred figures, made for either private devotion or for a donation to the church. One of the most favorite subjects was of the virgin Mary. This particular artwork was donated by Queen Jeanne d'Evreux to the royal abbey of Saint-Denis. This is where the artworks name comes from. In the artwork we see the Virgin Mary holding a golden scepter as well as Christ, who is sharing an intimate moment with is mother, putting his hand on her face. A specific trait of the Gothic time period is seen in the Virgins posture. This is called the Gothic Sway, and it used in a variety of sculptures during this time, and is referenced to long after the period is over.
Why This Artwork?
This particular sculpture was chosen to show how sculptures were treated during the Gothic period, as well as the traits associated with the period, such as the Gothic sway. This particular artwork shows a continuance of the need for personal devotion items as they were still being produced in great numbers, showing that it is now becoming more and more accepted.