Design Toscano Direct Casting of The Virgin and Child with the Infant St. John Wall Sculpture

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] It should be understood that apparently this object is a cast from the original, not a replica. Thus it has a special relation to the original sculpture by Michelangelo. It may be surprising, then, that my only reason for not giving it a five star rating reflects the only drawback of an object that is a cast. Its detail falls short of the original, as will probably be true of almost any cast. However, this does not detract from the beauty of the object. nor from its interest as a historical object in its own right. The todno portrays the Christ child rolling off Mary's lap. Like some later art, like that of del Sarto, the piece perhaps exemplifies the belief that the Christ child had foreknowledge and fear of his fate. Unlike the earlier Yarnwinders of Leonardo, the tondo portrays the child as in a state of fear, or at least of agitation. I find it difficult to believe anyone with a strong feeling for Renaissance art would not want to have this in her home. However, it should be kept in mind that it needs a large wall space, being almost four feet across. Being made of resin, it is not however so heavy that hanging it is a problem.. Proper lighting is a must.

When Michelangelo's Taddei Tondo Madonna and Child arrived, we intended to place it in our garden. But it was so large - and breathtakingly beautiful - that we decided to donate it to the Shrine of St. Bernadette in Albuquerque NM where it adorns one of the vestibule walls. The image of Mother and Child has multi-colored votive candles flickering beneath it - which thousands of pilgrims light continunously. This work of art is truly a symbol of faith, and radiates inspiration to all who visit it. The sculpture definitely deserved a home at The Shrine. What a tender reminder of how important sacred art is to us who are blessed with the grace of belief!