Artwork

Madonna and child

Madonna and child, by Andrea del Castagno, fresco, 1443
Madonna and child, by Andrea del Castagno, fresco, 1443

Madonna and child is a fresco painting by the Early Renaissance artist Andrea del Castagno. It dates from 1443 and is held in the collection of the Uffizi Gallery.

About this work

Overview

The Casa Pazzi Madonna is a 1443 fresco fragment by Andrea del Castagno, originally the altarpiece of Santa Brigida chapel at Castello del Trebbio. Now in the Uffizi's Contini Bonacossi collection, it depicts the Virgin Mary with the Christ child surrounded by five attendants.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays the Madonna and Child as the central figures, accompanied by three standing and two kneeling figures, all in flowing robes. The composition suggests a scene of anticipatory attention focused on the child, with the Madonna's calm demeanor contrasting with the child's averted gaze.

Technique & Style

Executed in fresco, the work features a predominantly deep blue, red, and green palette with pervasive gold accents. A golden background with a prominent pale circular motif above the central figures adds to the overall luminosity.

History & Provenance

Originally part of the Castello del Trebbio's chapel, the fresco was later owned by Andrea de' Pazzi. Removed from its original location in the 19th century, it is now preserved in the Uffizi Gallery as part of the Contini Bonacossi collection.

Context

Created for a chapel, this fresco reflects the religious art patronage of the time, blending devotional themes with the artistic innovations of the early Renaissance.

Legacy

As a preserved fragment of a Renaissance altarpiece, the Casa Pazzi Madonna provides insight into the artistic practices and religious culture of 15th-century Italy, though its current state as a fragment limits its original contextual impact.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Andrea del Castagno

Artist

Andrea del Castagno

Andrea del Castagno had a quick, sharp career in 15th-century Florence. He wasn’t the most famous painter of his time, but he stood out for his bold, almost sculptural figures that looked ready to step off the wall. His…

Uffizi Gallery

Museum

Uffizi Gallery

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Uffizi Gallery open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.