This inestimable statue in the round is once again an episode taken from the gospel of Saint Luke; the Visitation.
After the Annunciation, Marie visits her cousin Elisabeth who, even though she was said to be sterile, is six months pregnant. According to the Bible text this was not just a meeting of two mothers, but above all their two soon to be born children, Jesus-Christ and Saint John the Baptist, who were to carry out God’s work on earth. This double female portrait of Mary and Elisabeth embracing each other, emphasizes the tender bond they shared. Mary, younger and taller, is looking at the wonder on her cousin’s face, who in turn, is looking into the distance. Elisabeth is wearing a wimple covering her hair in line with the Holy Scriptures that stipulated married women must cover their hair. Their long fitted dresses reflect the fashions at the turn of the 16th century.
But this alabaster statue was not just for visual pleasure! It also had a votive function as it was offered in return for prayer.