Madonna and Child

Originally part of a tabernacle with now-lost painted doors, the work is notable for the highly expressive features of its figures. In the 15th century, the original faces were covered with painted papier-mâché masks, perhaps created to update the appearance of the depicted subjects. These masks can be viewed by opening the drawer below. This type of carved and painted wooden sculpture, likely produced in specialised workshops, was widespread throughout central Italy during the Middle Ages.