Lot 1004: RELIGIOUS SCULPTURE, MADONNA & CHILD

A VERY FINE AND IMPORTANT CARVED AND GILT DECORATED FIGURAL GROUPING OF THE MADONNA AND CHILD, ANTON JOSEPH REISS (1835-1900). At center, within an arched carved reserve, a three-quarters round carving of the Madonna and Child, naturalistically rendered with deep folds, good proportions and good anatomy. The infant Christ child delivers a blessing while holding a small sparrow, and the hem of the Virgin's vestments with gilt decoration. The carved arched niche with acanthus bracketed based pillasters on both sides supporting an arched top deeply carved with cherubim. Above the Virgin, a carved dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit, set against a gilt sunburst decoration and below further still the background in ornate gilt decorated scrolling foliage. The skirt carved with a fruit basket flanked by stylized dolphins. Verso with recessed hanging hardware and with faded exhibition label inscribed Reiss and the base with incised signature 'J. Reiss-Dusseld.' Stunning! Height 37.5 inches (95.3 cm), width 20.75 inches (52.5 cm).