Virgin of Montserrat; Barcelona; c. 1900.

Virgin of Montserrat; Barcelona; c. 1900.
Patinated plaster ceiling.
Presents inscription "Regina Catalonia":
Measurements: 75 x 34,5 x 2,5 cm.
In this image we see the Virgin of Montserrat on a landscape background identifiable with the mountain of the same name, the Virgin is represented in the center of the composition, imposing and majestic. According to the chronicler Jeroni Pujades (1568-1635), before and during the 16th century, the Moreneta did not hold anything on her right side. However, it was at the end of this century when this sphere with lily was added, symbolizing Mary's virginity before, during and after childbirth.
The Moreneta or black virgin is the patron saint of Catalonia but has been worshipped since medieval times beyond its geographical borders. Legend has it that the first image of the Virgin of Montserrat was found by some shepherd children in the year 880. After seeing a light in the mountain, the children found the image inside a cave. Upon hearing the news, the bishop of Manresa tried to move the image to this city, but the transfer was impossible because the statue weighed too much. The bishop interpreted this as the Virgin's wish to remain in the place where she had been found and ordered the construction of the hermitage of Santa Maria, the origin of the present monastery.