German carved and turned bone sculpture, 18th century

In carved and turned bone, resting on an ebonized wooden base decorated with floral motifs, it features an elaborate design with intricate decorative elements and a multi-level structure. The piece is likely a liturgical or decorative object from the Baroque or Rococo period, crafted with exceptional artisanal skill.
The sculpture consists of a rectangular ebonized wooden base supporting a central column adorned with pierced floral and geometric motifs. The column is divided into sections and features rich decorations, such as bird figures resembling ostriches or flamingos on an upper tier. At the top stands a figure of the Madonna with Child, depicted standing with a halo and draped garments, surrounded by two spiral flames that may symbolize candles.

The object could be a portable altar or a religious insignia, often used to manifest affiliation with faith and community. These objects were employed in various contexts, such as churches, places of worship, daily religious practices, or as part of liturgical attire. Additionally, religious insignia could serve an educational or preaching function, conveying a symbolic message easily understood by practitioners of the faith.
These types of artifacts were common in Central and Southern Europe (Italy, Germany, or Spain) between the 16th and 18th centuries..