Madonna / Virgin Mary at Prayer
Ceramic sculpture, slip-cast figurine • Likely Hummel for Goebel (West Germany) or a contemporary European ceramic workshop in that style
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern Religious Folk Art (often referred to as 'Sacrificial' or 'Goebel' style)
Medium & Technique
Glazed porcelain or earthenware with hand-applied matte polychrome glazes
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 10 to 12 inches in height; vertical/portrait format
Subject Description
The Virgin Mary is depicted in a slender, elongated vertical composition. She is shown in a state of prayer with hands joined (orans pose), head slightly bowed in humility. She wears a peach-toned mantle over a pale green robe, standing on a circular mound over a square base.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The glaze appears intact with no large visible cracks, though the surface shows light dust accumulation and possible minor shelf wear at the base.
Estimated Market Value
$40 - $85 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $60 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired as a devotional or decorative object for a Catholic household during the postwar era. No specific labels visible in the image, but common in American and European homes of that period.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the mass-market democratization of religious art in the mid-20th century. These figurines were highly popular for home altars, moving away from formal Baroque austerity toward a softer, more approachable and sentimental aesthetic.
Notable Features
Elongated, stylized facial features characteristic of the mid-century European school; matte finish (rather than high-gloss), which suggests a more intentional artistic choice typical of quality West German ceramics.
Condition Issues
Visible dust buildup; potential fine crazing (standard for aged glaze) not visible at this resolution; small dark mark/loss near the bottom hem of the robe.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a temperature-controlled environment away from direct sunlight to prevent glaze fading. Clean with a soft, dry cloth or a slightly damp micro-fiber cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners.