German - Virgin and Child - Walters 71233

This Virgin and Child was carved from a curved piece of ivory corresponding to the shape of the original elephant tusk. Only the front is carved, suggesting that it was attached to a flat surface such as a shrine or diptych. A few areas of color are preserved from the original polychromy (paint). The smooth drapery is a German feature that differs from the rippled and pleated fabric of French statuettes.