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Virgin and Child Enthroned (so-called Golden Madonna)

German (Hildesheim)

before 1022

Not on view

One of the oldest three-dimensional sculptures in the medieval Latin West, this shimmering statue is an important early medieval Maestà, or Virgin enthroned with the Christ Child. It was likely commissioned by Bishop Bernward. Cult figures such as this contributed to the veneration of the Virgin. Touched in adoration during liturgical processions, it was also, according to a 1438 cathedral inventory, adorned with more than one hundred brooches, rings, and chains left as votive offerings.

Virgin and Child Enthroned (so-called Golden Madonna), Gold on linden wood core, filigree, and precious and semiprecious stones, German (Hildesheim) — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Virgin and Child Enthroned (so-called Golden Madonna)

Date: before 1022

Culture: German (Hildesheim)

Medium: Gold on linden wood core, filigree, and precious and semiprecious stones

Dimensions: Overall: 22 5/16 x 10 1/16 x 9 15/16 in. (56.6 x 25.5 x 25.2 cm)

Classification: Metalwork-Gold

Credit Line: Dom-Museum Hildesheim (DS 82)

Accession Number: SL.5.2013.1.13

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Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world, encompassing the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome to the beginning of the Renaissance.