Artwork
The Madonna

The Madonna is a photography by Unknown. It dates from 1550 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.
About this work
Overview
The work known as “The Madonna” is a mid‑sixteenth‑century image attributed to the artist recorded as 1872_person. Executed around 1550, the piece is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography. It presents a solitary figure of the Virgin Mary in a restrained composition that emphasizes her calm demeanor.
Subject & Meaning
The central figure is the Virgin Mary, portrayed with a tranquil expression and downward‑cast eyes. Her hands are joined gently over her chest, suggesting prayer or devotion. The subdued pose and muted gesture convey a mood of quiet contemplation, inviting viewers to reflect on themes of piety and maternal reverence.
Technique & Style
The image employs a pronounced chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts between the dark background and the illuminated areas of Mary’s face, hands, and flowing robe. This modelling creates a three‑dimensional sense of volume, directing attention to the facial features and the clasped hands while enveloping the figure in a soft, contemplative light.
History & Provenance
Since its creation in the mid‑1500s, the painting has been retained within the holdings of the Museum of Ethnography. The institution’s records list the work under the title “The Madonna,” confirming its attribution to 1872_person and its continuous public display as part of the museum’s ethnographic and religious art collection.
Artist & collection













