Two bronze reliefs

Beschreibung

Two bronze reliefs

1. Saint Mary Magdalene in Penitence

Cast bronze relief Europe (presumably Spain), ca. 1600/ 17th century

Dimensions: 11.3 × 7 cm.

This finely cast bronze relief depicts Saint Mary Magdalene kneeling in contemplation before the Crucifix, which she tenderly holds in her right hand. A skull and ointment jar appear beside her, traditional symbols of repentance and her devotion to Christ. Her long flowing hair and richly folded drapery are rendered in sharp relief, set against a rocky background with distant buildings that evoke her retreat into the wilderness. The plaque exemplifies the refined modelling and devotional character of late-16th-century European bronzes. Its small rectangular format and suspension loop suggest that it may have served as a private devotional plaque or pax, intended for personal meditation rather than liturgical use. Similar examples in the collection of The Met Museum In good condition

2. Saint Jerome in the Wilderness

Cast bronze relief Europe (presumably Spain), ca. 1600/17th century

Dimensions: 11.5 × 7 cm

This small rectangular gilt bronze relief, possibly intended as a pax or private devotional plaque, depicts Saint Jerome in the wilderness. The saint is with bear chest seated upon his knees, holding a crucifix in his raised left hand and a stone in the other, symbols of penitence and contemplation. Around him are his traditional attributes: the cardinal’s hat, a book, and a skull. At his feet lies the lion, his legendary companion, while tin the upper right corner are swirling clouds suggesting divine presence. The finely chased surface reveal the high quality of the casting. With its modest size and suspension loop, the plaque was likely used for private devotion or as part of a small domestic altar. Similar examples in the collection of The Met Museum In good condition