Madonna and Child

Artist / MakerArtist is Christian Petersen (Danish - American, 1885 - 1961)

Date1936

MediumWood (Black Walnut)

Dimensions17 1/2 x 6 1/2 x 4 1/2 in. (44.5 x 16.5 x 11.4 cm)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LinePurchased by University Museums from Rose Turley. In the Christian Petersen Art Collection, Christian Petersen Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State Univeristy.

Object numberU2000.136

Status

Not on view

Collections

CultureAmerican

Label TextFrom the University Museums Collections Handbook, vol. 2, 2025: The Madonna and Child stands as one of the most significant icons in Christianity, symbolizing the relationship between the Virgin Mary and the infant Jesus. Historically, these icons have long served to visually convey Christian beliefs and teachings. This artistic form draws inspiration from earlier representations during the Gothic and Renaissance periods in Europe, when the image of the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child became particularly popular. In many depictions, including this carved sculpture by Christian Petersen, the Christ Child is shown gently pushing away the veil of His mother, a subtle gesture that reveals Mary’s sorrowful expression that reflects her foreknowledge of His crucifixion. For centuries, smaller renditions of the Madonna and Child, along with depictions of Christ on the Cross, have been cherished in Christian homes as focal points for private devotion and prayer. This carved sculpture would have made a fitting gift for Petersen’s daughter, Mary, whose Catholic upbringing led her to join a religious order to become a nun.

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