Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A painted ceramic or resin relief plaque depicting the profile head of the Virgin of Montserrat (La Moreneta), mounted on a finished wooden backing. The reverse features a handwritten travel inscription recording its purchase at the Montserrat mountaintop monastery during a trip from RAF Kemble in November 1983.
Story
In November 1983, a traveler from RAF Kemble climbed the peaks of Montserrat, Spain, bringing home this devotional depiction of Catalonia's beloved patroness, complete with a handwritten diary entry on the reverse.
Maker / Origin
Produced by regional artisans or monastic workshops associated with the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey in Catalonia. These devotional souvenirs have been crafted for centuries to serve the millions of pilgrims visiting the shrine of the Black Virgin high in the Montserrat mountain range.
Condition & Value
Good vintage condition with minor surface dust, light edge rubbing on the polychrome paint, and adhesive/putty residue on the reverse corners. Condition is appropriate for age and does not significantly impact value.
Full Research
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.