Virgin of the Immaculate Conception

India, early 17th century
Ivory, rosewood
Asian Civilisations Museum [2015-00197]

The Immaculate Conception is the principle that the Virgin Mary was freed from sin at the moment she was conceived (a concept distinct from the virgin birth of Christ). Although not described in the gospel, the belief arose early in the history of Christianity, and grew in popularity. Spanish painters in the early 17th century added elements that became standard, including the crescent moon and the defeat of the serpent.

The triangular wooden base is decorated with ivory plaques carved with symmetrical, stylized flowers, typical of Mughal decoration.