Renaissance Devotional Panel | Carved Wooden Plaque with Pelican in Her Piety | 16th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Europe (likely Western Europe)
Material: Carved wood with traces of polychrome
Period: 16th Century (Renaissance)
Description
This small rectangular devotional panel, dating to the 16th century, is finely open-carved with a zoomorphic scroll motif centered on the figure of the Pelican in Her Piety—a powerful Christian symbol of sacrifice and nurturing love. Measuring approximately 5 inches by 4.5 inches, the panel combines delicate craftsmanship with deep spiritual meaning. Once brightly painted, faint traces of original pigment remain, attesting to its Renaissance origins and its likely role within a church, chapel, or private devotional setting.
Features
- Central motif of the Pelican in Her Piety, wings outstretched, feeding her young with her own blood—symbolic of Christ’s sacrifice
- Elegant zoomorphic scrollwork with flowing organic lines
- Subtle traces of residual paint indicating its original polychrome finish
- Compact form suitable for devotional or decorative display
Cultural Significance
The pelican became one of the most enduring symbols in medieval and Renaissance Christian art, representing Christ’s selfless sacrifice for humanity. Panels such as this one were used to inspire devotion, reminding the faithful of themes of love, redemption, and spiritual nourishment. The combination of zoomorphic ornament and symbolic imagery reflects Renaissance tendencies to blend natural forms with sacred meaning. As a portable or architectural fragment, this piece embodies both the artistry and the spirituality of its age.
Condition
Good condition with minor wear consistent with age. Subtle traces of polychrome survive, enhancing authenticity and aesthetic value.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 5 in
Width: 4.5 in
Age
16th Century
Learn More
Explore surviving Renaissance devotional panels and their religious significance: Surviving Devotional Panels from the Renaissance
Explore related ancient and historical carved works and figures: Explore Statues, Figures & Carvings
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Europe (likely Western Europe)
Material: Carved wood with traces of polychrome
Period: 16th Century (Renaissance)
Description
This small rectangular devotional panel, dating to the 16th century, is finely open-carved with a zoomorphic scroll motif centered on the figure of the Pelican in Her Piety—a powerful Christian symbol of sacrifice and nurturing love. Measuring approximately 5 inches by 4.5 inches, the panel combines delicate craftsmanship with deep spiritual meaning. Once brightly painted, faint traces of original pigment remain, attesting to its Renaissance origins and its likely role within a church, chapel, or private devotional setting.
Features
- Central motif of the Pelican in Her Piety, wings outstretched, feeding her young with her own blood—symbolic of Christ’s sacrifice
- Elegant zoomorphic scrollwork with flowing organic lines
- Subtle traces of residual paint indicating its original polychrome finish
- Compact form suitable for devotional or decorative display
Cultural Significance
The pelican became one of the most enduring symbols in medieval and Renaissance Christian art, representing Christ’s selfless sacrifice for humanity. Panels such as this one were used to inspire devotion, reminding the faithful of themes of love, redemption, and spiritual nourishment. The combination of zoomorphic ornament and symbolic imagery reflects Renaissance tendencies to blend natural forms with sacred meaning. As a portable or architectural fragment, this piece embodies both the artistry and the spirituality of its age.
Condition
Good condition with minor wear consistent with age. Subtle traces of polychrome survive, enhancing authenticity and aesthetic value.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 5 in
Width: 4.5 in
Age
16th Century
Learn More
Explore surviving Renaissance devotional panels and their religious significance: Surviving Devotional Panels from the Renaissance
Explore related ancient and historical carved works and figures: Explore Statues, Figures & Carvings
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