Saint Veronica
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Saint Veronica
Makerpossibly
Italian
Makerpossibly
Spanish
Dateca. 1550
MediumMarble
Dimensionsoverall: 5 x 7 1/2 x 3 in. (12.7 x 19.1 x 7.6 cm)
Credit LineMuseum purchase with funds provided by Wellesley College Friends of Art
Object number1965.3
Status
On viewRightsCopyright is retained in accordance with U.S. Copyright laws
Photo creditDavis Museum at Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA
More InformationThe change in the Renaissance from the medieval feudal system to city-states spurred economic growth via commerce, and increased the wealth of private citizens. Prosperity led to the construction of larger residences and an industry of luxury goods meant to reflect power and prestige. Private commissions rivaled institutional patrons such as the Church; the mass market for household objects also grew. Art entered the household through functional decorative arts such as the ornamental lock on display here, as well as in the form of paintings, small sculptures, and plaquettes, like the example showing the Lamentation here, which was intended for private devotion and contemplation.