Pair of European Devotional Miniatures | Hand-Painted Madonnina and Virgin Mary | Circa 1880–1920
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Italy or Austria
Material: Hand-painted on celluloid or ivory, framed with radial bone/ivory veneer and gilt bronze/brass
Period: Late 19th to early 20th Century (circa 1880–1920)
Description
This pair of finely executed miniature devotional paintings pays homage to Roberto Ferruzzi’s iconic “Madonnina” and related Renaissance-inspired Marian works. Each piece reflects the high craftsmanship of late 19th–early 20th century European devotional art, designed for private veneration or as treasured gifts. One miniature depicts a Madonna and Child, strongly resembling Ferruzzi’s celebrated image, while the other portrays a haloed Virgin Mary in prayer against a soft pastoral background. Both are delicately hand-painted and set beneath protective glass, framed within radial bone or ivory veneer and ornate gilt bronze/brass surrounds with original velvet backs and hanging loops intact.
Features
- Pair of hand-painted devotional miniatures on celluloid or ivory
- Frames with radial bone/ivory veneer and gilt bronze/brass ornamentation
- Left: Madonna and Child resembling Ferruzzi’s “Madonnina”
- Right: Virgin Mary in prayer with halo and pastoral setting
- Original velvet backings and hanging loops preserved
- Signed by miniaturist, suggesting studio-trained origin
Cultural Significance
Miniatures of this kind were prized for their role in private devotion, offering the faithful a tangible focus for prayer and reflection within the home. Rooted in both Renaissance revival aesthetics and Marian traditions, these works reflect the widespread popularity of Ferruzzi’s imagery across Europe. Beyond their devotional use, such miniatures were also admired as collectible art objects during the Belle Époque, bridging piety and decorative refinement.
Condition
Very good antique condition. Minor wear to gilt frames and natural toning on bone/ivory veneer consistent with age. Paintings remain vibrant and well-preserved. Original glass, velvet backing, and suspension loops intact.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 3.75 in
Width: 3.25 in
Age
Estimated 100–140 years old (circa 1880–1920)
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Italy or Austria
Material: Hand-painted on celluloid or ivory, framed with radial bone/ivory veneer and gilt bronze/brass
Period: Late 19th to early 20th Century (circa 1880–1920)
Description
This pair of finely executed miniature devotional paintings pays homage to Roberto Ferruzzi’s iconic “Madonnina” and related Renaissance-inspired Marian works. Each piece reflects the high craftsmanship of late 19th–early 20th century European devotional art, designed for private veneration or as treasured gifts. One miniature depicts a Madonna and Child, strongly resembling Ferruzzi’s celebrated image, while the other portrays a haloed Virgin Mary in prayer against a soft pastoral background. Both are delicately hand-painted and set beneath protective glass, framed within radial bone or ivory veneer and ornate gilt bronze/brass surrounds with original velvet backs and hanging loops intact.
Features
- Pair of hand-painted devotional miniatures on celluloid or ivory
- Frames with radial bone/ivory veneer and gilt bronze/brass ornamentation
- Left: Madonna and Child resembling Ferruzzi’s “Madonnina”
- Right: Virgin Mary in prayer with halo and pastoral setting
- Original velvet backings and hanging loops preserved
- Signed by miniaturist, suggesting studio-trained origin
Cultural Significance
Miniatures of this kind were prized for their role in private devotion, offering the faithful a tangible focus for prayer and reflection within the home. Rooted in both Renaissance revival aesthetics and Marian traditions, these works reflect the widespread popularity of Ferruzzi’s imagery across Europe. Beyond their devotional use, such miniatures were also admired as collectible art objects during the Belle Époque, bridging piety and decorative refinement.
Condition
Very good antique condition. Minor wear to gilt frames and natural toning on bone/ivory veneer consistent with age. Paintings remain vibrant and well-preserved. Original glass, velvet backing, and suspension loops intact.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 3.75 in
Width: 3.25 in
Age
Estimated 100–140 years old (circa 1880–1920)
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