Large Virgin Immaculate Conception - Atelier Mayer & Cie, Munich - Institut Royal de l'Art Chrétien

Majestic Virgin Immaculate Conception from the illustrious Mayer & Cie workshop in Munich, bearing the original "Institut Royal de l'Art Chrétien" plaque and the recessed monogram "R", attributed to sculptor Johann Nepomuk Roth (1841-1899), one of Mayer's leading modellers at the end of the XIXᵉ century.
Produced around 1885, this work testifies to the highest craftsmanship of neo-Gothic-inspired German religious sculpture, imbued with gentleness and mysticism.
The Virgin, hands clasped, treads the serpent of Original Sin on a crescent moon, allegorizing purity and the triumph of good.
The delicate face, subtle complexion and original polychrome of celestial blue, gold and ivory reveal the virtuosity of the modelling and the sensitivity of the brush.
The original molded base, adorned with the Mayer & Cie plaque, lends the piece museum-quality authenticity.

Historical details
Founded in 1847 by Joseph-Gabriel Mayer, the studio quickly established itself as one of Europe's most prestigious centers for sacred art. In 1882, it was elevated to the rank of "Royal Institute of Christian Art" by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, before receiving the pontifical distinction in 1892.
Under Mayer's direction, the establishment brought together exceptional sculptors, glassmakers and gilders, distributing their work throughout Europe and as far afield as the overseas missions.
Johann Nepomuk Roth, a Munich sculptor trained at the Academy of Fine Arts, worked closely with Mayer from the 1870s. His spiritually appeased Virgins and Saints are characterized by graceful faces and balanced gestures. His models were featured in numerous Mayer catalogs right up to the turn of the century.

Condition
Exceptional original condition.
Perfectly preserved polychromy, soft, harmonious patina.
Slight wear on the base, but no alteration to the reading.
No visible restoration: work in its authenticity.

Dimensions

Height: 138 cm (54.3 in)
Width: approx. 40 cm (15.7 in)
Depth: 35 cm (13.8 in)

Provenance
Probably destined for a French convent chapel or parish church.
An altarpiece or private devotional piece of rare nobility.
Period
Late 19thᵉ century - circa 1885
Kingdom of Bavaria, Munich
Atelier Mayer & Cie - Royal Institute of Christian Art
Sculptor: Johann Nepomuk Roth (1841-1899)

Origin: Germany, Munich

Ref: YBB74MWVV0