Throne of Wisdom

French, 1130-1140
Birch, polychromy; 40½ in. tall (102.9 cm)
The Cloisters, New York City, 47.101.15

This is the canonical form of the Throne of Wisdom iconographic type. Christ, who is Wisdom, is enthroned on his mother's lap. She in turn sits on a throne. The book on the child's knee also functions as a symbol of Wisdom.

Curator Lucretia Kargere discusses the statue in this video.

Read more about the Throne of Wisdom.

Photo: Metropolitan Museum of Art