Who painted The Virgin and Child on a Grassy Bench?

The Virgin and Child on a Grassy Bench was painted by Albrecht Dürer in 1503.

Where can I see The Virgin and Child on a Grassy Bench?

The Virgin and Child on a Grassy Bench is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Virgin and Child on a Grassy Bench?

The Virgin and Child on a Grassy Bench is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

The Virgin and Child on a Grassy Bench

Albrecht Dürer , 1503

The Virgin and Child on a Grassy Bench is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1503 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This print depicts a serene and intimate moment between the Virgin and the Christ Child, emphasizing their personal bond in a natural setting.

Subject & Meaning

The Virgin tenderly nurses the Christ Child, conveying maternal protection and devotion. Symbolic elements, including a dead tree and a goldfinch, subtly allude to the inevitability of Christ's Passion, lending depth to the otherwise quiet scene.

Technique & Style

The composition features gentle, naturalistic interactions, such as the play of hands, suggesting a warm and universal maternal relationship. While the visual note mentions sfumato, this technique is not overtly highlighted in the provided facts; the focus instead is on the emotional intimacy achieved through the arrangement and expression of the figures.

History & Provenance

No specific historical or provenance details are provided about this particular print, beyond its attribution to Dürer.

Context

Created within Dürer's oeuvre, this work reflects the Renaissance interest in depicting religious subjects with heightened humanism and emotional depth.

Legacy

As one of Dürer's more tender portrayals of the Virgin and Child, it contributes to the artist's reputation for capturing nuanced, relatable moments in religious art.