The Origin of the Black Madonna and Child

Black Madonna and Child Donated to U of D by Project 100 Class of 197

There are three distinct categories of Black Madonnas:

1. Madonnas of dark brown or black skin pigmentation and physiognomy resembling the populace indigenous to the area;
2. Madonnas that became black due to smoke damage, deterioration, oxidation, or other physical changes; and
3. miracle-working Black Madonnas with black or dark brown pigmentation originating in regions inhabited by Caucasians.

The third category is significant; for physical deterioration, accident nor resemblance to the native population can logically explain their cloro or account for their discovery in areas populated by whites. These Black Madonnas were considered to be exceedingly powerful miracle workers and held in high esteem. They were worshipped for their power rather adored due to their grace.

 An eighteen foot chancel mural of the Black Madonna, painted by Detroit artist Glanton Dowdell was unveiled and dedicated on Easter Sunday, March 26, 1967, at the Shrine of the Black Madonna by the Reverend Albert Cleage. This mural became Detroit's first representation of the Black Madonna and Child.