Bidspirit auction | 16th Century School of Mechelen

16th Century School of Mechelen - Virgin and Child (Mechelen Doll) - Carved wood and metal, with traces of original polychromy. Dimensions: 124.5 × 50.8 × 40.6 cm. These so-called Mechelen Dolls are rare devotional figures made of wood (mainly walnut), produced by members of the Guild of Saint Luke between 1450 and 1530. Each one represented an individual saint, crafted with precision following regulated models. The pieces had to include the letter ”M,” the distinctive mark of Mechelen, visible in the carving. These sculptures were displayed independently or integrated into small domestic altars and private oratories. After 1530, the production of these figures was replaced by larger sculptures. This is an exceptional example due to its state of preservation and size, with original traces of polychromy. A work of great rarity and historical importance in Flemish devotional sculpture of the Renaissance. Provenance: private collection. Lot in international warehouse (within the EU). Intra-community shipment: no import duties apply within the EU. An export permit from the country of origin may be required.