Although the 18th century, the period of the Enlightenment in France, spawned thinkers who criticized the privileges of the clergy and the truthfulness of certain dogmas, the Roman Catholic faith was very much present in everyday life. Since king Louis XIV had issued the Edict of Fontainebleau in 1685, Protestantism was banned. This Madonna with child illustrates the daily practice of faith. Like many 18th-century Madonna statues of the south of France, this Virgin has no refined facial features. Even though the sculptor has paid a lot of attention to the rhythm of the folds, the figure remains rather heavy. An iron hook is attached to the back of the statue to anchor it. The polychrome and gilding on the front are still intact.