The Latin term Sedes sapientiae  translates as "Seat of Wisdom" or "Throne of Wisdom"  and pertains to icons and sculptures where Mary is seated on a throne with the Christ Child on her lap. This form of icon with the figures frontally posed and rather stiff and sturdy were produced in northern Spain during the 12th and 13th centuries a period when southern Spain was under Islamic rule. Mary would have originally have held a small orb in her right hand whilst Christ would have his raised in blessing. This sculpture has been retouched and areas repainted over the centuries but the gilding on the figures appears to be original.

Provenance: Private collection Paris.