Richier typically worked in stone; however, these figures of the Virgin and St John the Evangelist are carved in wood. They were originally painted, and some traces of colour are still visible. The left hand of St John appears to have been replaced in modern wood. Richier has animated these sorrowful figures through their facial expressions, gestures and elongated draped garments. The clasped hands and contrapposto pose of the Virgin, as well as the heavenward gaze of St John, suggest that these sculptures were designed to be viewed as part of a larger group.
Richier typically worked in stone; however, these figures of the Virgin and St John the Evangelist are carved in wood. They were originally painted, and some traces of colour are still visible. The left hand of St John appears to have been replaced in modern wood. Richier has animated these sorrowful figures through their facial expressions, gestures and elongated draped garments. The clasped hands and contrapposto pose of the Virgin, as well as the heavenward gaze of St John, suggest that these sculptures were designed to be viewed as part of a larger group.