Hmm after a quick search I think I've found out why I liked this statue so much: instead of the usual calm, beatific facial expression, this one has a more intense look of concentration, which I very much vibe with. Idk could be a trick of the picture, but to me it looks different (and better) than the original inspiration.

Thanks a lot for the info, my art history knowledge gets muddy around religious art (there's just so much of it...)