Virgin and Child with Censing Angels, ca. 1425 - ca. 1450

Statues made of limestone or wood were usually polychromed in the 15th century. However, specimens with an original and well-preserved polychromy are rare. The former colourful and brilliant appearance of most statues has been lost due to poor preservation conditions, neglect or changed aesthetic views. Traces of painting can be found on the small relief in white stone of the Virgin with Child, enthroned by two angels. Polychroming is usually the painter's task. It is a time-consuming and complex technique and therefore often better paid than carving or cutting. Polychromy, also called upholstery, is not mere decoration. The colours have a symbolic meaning and should give the sculpture a sublime and transcendental glow.