Large Santibelli Sculpture of the Virgin and Child with Cherubs - Late 19th Century 20½"

This impressive terracotta Santibelli sculpture, notable for its larger size, depicts the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child, flanked by cherubs at her feet. Traditionally crafted in Southern France around Marseille, in the 19th and early 20th centuries, Santibelli figures served as devotional objects displayed in homes or during religious festivities. Highly cherished in Provence, they are known for their vibrant colors and folk-inspired details.

The statue is adorned with vivid hand-painted colors, featuring Mary in a flowing golden yellow robe, while the Christ Child is delicately held in her arms with a serene expression. Both figures wear ornate crowns, a distinctive feature often seen in Santibelli sculptures, symbolizing their holy status. A floral garland arches over Mary and the Child, adding an extra layer of decoration that enhances the sculpture's festive and reverent aura. The two cherubs, painted in soft whites and yellows, kneel in devotion at the base, each with tender expressions that add a sense of innocence and humility to the composition.

The sculpture has undergone careful restoration, preserving its original character while ensuring stability. Its lively palette of yellows, blues, and reds adds warmth and reverence to the scene, while the expressive faces of Mary, the Child, and the cherubs bring a sense of tenderness. This Santibelli embodies both folk devotion and artisanal craftsmanship, making it an extraordinary addition to any collection of religious or Folk Art pieces.