I saw this expressive stature of Mary and Jesus at Notre Dame de la Garde in Marseilles. This church is atop a hill overlooking the harbor and is dedicated to “Our lady of the Watch” – the traditional guardian of seafarers. The church with its gilded statue of Mary and Infant Jesus dominates the skyline of Marseilles. Its interiors are covered with offerrings from devotees – most prominently model ships.
The island barely visible in the background is Chateau D’lf – the island prison made famous in the Alexandre Dumas’ novel – The Count of Monte Cristo. You can visit the old island prison by boat on days when the water in the bay is not choppy.
Pictorial Musings 
Truly brilliant picture !!! The backdrop, and the exquisite sculptures themselves…- especially the expression on Jesus’ face, and the folds of the clothing…
Evoked nostalgic memories of school – where we had read the Count of Monte Cristo novel with great interest 🙂
Excellent backdrop!
Awesome pic!
I would like to paint it on my sitting room wall. Because it’s too much peaceful.
May I have your permission to use this photo for the cover of prayer cards? (They’ll be given as gifts, not sold).
Yes you can go ahead. Pls. do share a pic of what you create
Great! Thanks so much! How would you like to be created?
You can credit the picture to me as Hariharan Srinath