Our Lady of Refuge Figurine

Product Description

The Our Lady of Refuge Figurine is a comforting modern update of a centuries-old representation of Mary. Made of solid bronze, this figurine shows Mary welcoming people into the warm embrace of her cloak. At about 2.25″ high and 3 ounces in weight, this piece weighs about the same as a lightweight watch. The size and weight of the figurine makes it suitable as a comforting pocket prayer piece, or as an adornment to a desk or nightstand as a reminder of Mary’s strength-giving comfort.

Mother Hen or Icon of God’s Maternal Love?

Those seeking shelter under Mary’s cloak are often depicted kneeling and are by necessity shown on a much smaller scale. They may come from segments of Christian society, with royal crowns, mitres, and even a papal tiara in the front rows, or they may represent only the local townsfolk. Our Lady of Refuge, or the Virgin of Mercy, was a widespread devotion in Europe, often as a specific form of votive portrait, and especially in Italy from the 13th to 16th centuries. The Lutheran Reformer Martin Luther mocked the Schutzmantelmadonna as a “hen with her chicks.” But Our Lady of Refuge, the Virgin of Mercy, can be interpreted even more easily and respectfully as a special pathway to God, as an icon of God’s maternal love for us:  ”As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you…” (Isaiah 66:13).

Our Lady of Refuge has Many Names

Most commonly know as “the Virgin of Mercy,” the Our Lady of Refuge statue usually depicts Mary holding her cloak open to shelter clergy, laypeople, and royalty alike. This depiction of Mary is inspired by legal codes which guaranteed protection and safety from prosecution to all who found shelter under the cloak of a person with authority such as a king or queen. Our Lady of Refuge is known by many names:  In Germany as the Schutzmantelmadonna (Sheltering-cloak Madonna), in Italy as the Madonna della Misericordia (Madonna of Mercy), and in France as the Vièrge au Manteau or Vierge de Miséricorde (Virgin with a cloak or Virgin of Mercy). This solid bronze piece is a most appropriate gift for a confirmation, birthday, first communion, and ordination.

Our Lady of Refuge is a depiction of Mary holding her cloak wide open to welcome laypeople and clergy alike. This depiction originated in the 13th century during the time of the Black Plague. The artist was inspired by a legal code which guaranteed safety and protection from prosecution to all who found shelter under the cloak of a famous person such as a king or queen.

“Hail, most tranquil haven, and most ardently longed for rescuer of the tempest-tossed from billows and storms.
Hail, succor of those in danger.
Hail, resurrection of our first father Adam.
Hail, sweet liberty.
Hail, parent of all.
Hail, fountain of grace, and of all the solace.
Hail, refuge and hospice of sinners.
Hail, mercy-seat of the afflicted.”
—St. Ephrem

This piece serves as a beautiful reminder to help one another.  Honor those in your life who volunteer, care for and serve others.  This religious gift is unique and inspirational.

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