The Child Mary Spinning Item Number: 3678/1 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Painting of the virgin child Mary spinning. She is seated in a friar's armchair holding a spindle and distaff. She wears layered garments including a white blouse with decorative edging around the sleeves, a red bodice and a dark floral skirt. She wears a cape, which is held in place by a broach with an anagram of her name. Her face is very pale with red cheeks. Her hair is held back by a gold headband with a red bow, and her head has an emanating halo. Bordered by flowers (tulips, carnations). Canvas on wood frame with paper around edges.

Cultural Context

Cuzco school painting; c. 18 century.

Narrative

Fred Braches collected the piece when he was stationed in Peru, while working in the merchant navy.