Sacred Heart of Jesus Italy Maiolica Mid Century Christ Bust Figure

Description

This is a mid-20th Century Italian bust of Christ as the "Sacred Heart of Jesus", crafted with meticulous detail and signed on the bottom. Made of maiolica ceramic, the piece is marked "Made in Italy" and numbered 795. The intricate detailing on the robe around Christ’s shoulders adorned with decorative elements and a radiant golden halo surrounding Christ’s head are a testament to the artist’s mastery over their medium.

The artwork encapsulates an ethereal beauty; though two pieces are broken, it does not detract from its spiritual allure but adds a layer of historical narrative. The ceramic used in this fine piece is a staple of italian craftsmanship, showcasing mastery of technique while maintaining aesthetic grace.

The style represented here is deeply rooted in religious iconography; it captures the physical representation and also emanates spiritual significance. The Sacred Heart of Jesus has been a pivotal symbol in Christian art, embodying the compassionate and merciful love of Jesus Christ for humanity. Here are some key aspects and meanings associated with the artistic representation of the Sacred Heart:

Heart Symbolism: The heart is a universal symbol of love and compassion. In the context of the Sacred Heart, it represents Jesus' divine love for humanity, emphasizing the emotional and spiritual aspects of his sacrifice.

Crown of Thorns: Often depicted encircling the heart, the crown of thorns symbolizes the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus during the Crucifixion. It serves as a reminder of the pain and trials endured for the redemption of humanity.

Flames or Radiant Light: Flames or radiant light surrounding the heart signify the burning love of Christ. This element is a visual representation of the intensity of Jesus' divine love, which is seen as a purifying and transformative force.

Cross: Sometimes, a cross is incorporated into the design, symbolizing the crucifixion and the salvific act of Jesus for the forgiveness of sins. It reinforces the connection between the Sacred Heart devotion and the central tenets of Christian faith.

Wound: The wound on the heart, often depicted as an open wound or a pierced area, represents the physical and spiritual wounds suffered by Jesus during the crucifixion. It is a poignant reminder of the price paid for humanity's salvation.

Surrounding Imagery: The Sacred Heart is often depicted within a halo or surrounded by additional religious symbols, such as a cross, a Bible, or other elements representing Christian faith. These elements contribute to the overall context of the representation.

Gesture of Blessing: In some depictions, Jesus may be shown making a gesture of blessing with his hand. This emphasizes the idea that the love emanating from the Sacred Heart is a source of divine blessings and grace for believers.

The devotion to the Sacred Heart has its roots in various mystical experiences and visions reported by saints, most notably St. Margaret Mary Alacoque in the 17th century. The purpose of this devotion is to encourage a deep, personal relationship with the love and mercy of Christ, fostering a sense of repentance, gratitude, and devotion among believers. The artistic representation of the Sacred Heart serves as a visual aid to inspire contemplation and devotion to the compassionate love of Jesus.

Its Italian origin adds an element of international allure while its signature confirms authenticity. This bust would be a significant acquisition for collectors with an affinity for religious art or those seeking to own a piece embedded with historical and artistic value.