Madonna in papier mâché

Madonna in papier mâché 16th century Height x width x depth: 17 x 20 x 11 cm. Weight: 475 g.
The papier mâché sculpture represents a female figure, likely the Virgin Mary, magnificently dressed, with a veil that wraps around her head, and seated on a throne, visible only from the back. Mary’s face is turned three-quarters, with her gaze directed to the left, lost in a contemplative void. The artwork is enriched with a polychromy of gold, red, and green, with floral decorations repeated along the entire garment and cloak, enhancing its refinement and elegance.The papier mâché technique (from the French, meaning 'mashed paper') is a craft that uses paper and adhesive to create objects that are both lightweight and strong. The process begins with a base form, typically made of wood, as in the case of this Madonna, onto which the paper paste is applied, layer by layer. Each layer, after being applied, must dry completely before the next one is added. Once the drying and finishing stages are complete, the object can be painted, gilded, covered, or further decorated, acquiring a refined finish that accentuates its beauty Item condition grading: **** good.The lot is in a good state of preservation with the normal wear and defects commensurate with its age and use over time. There are numerous colour and papier maché falls in the front, the Virgin is missing her left hand, there are small openings in the structure.