Virgin of the Immaculate Conception

Description The Virgin as the "Immaculata" (conceived in immaculate purity), stands on the globe of the world (originally supported by cherubs), in triumph over sin (Revelation 12), represented by the serpent that tempted Eve with a forbidden apple. The archdukes were devoted to the Immaculata. In celebration of Albert's military victories over Dutch forces and the truce of 1609, they built a chapel to her. The subtly flowing, voluminous drapery and sweetly sensitive face are characteristic of ivory carving in Liège in the independent Bishopric of Liège, within the Southern Netherlands.

Conservation

Date	Description	Narrative
10/01/1945	Treatment	cleaned
1/11/1962	Treatment	cleaned
10/23/1987	Treatment	cleaned
10/23/1987	Examination	examined for condition
4/28/2005	Treatment	cleaned

Exhibitions

• Ivory: The Sumptuous Art. The Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore. 1983-1984.

Provenance Henry Walters, Baltimore [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.

Credit Acquired by Henry Walters