Artwork
Mater Dolorosa
Mater Dolorosa is an unspecified painting by the Early Renaissance artist Baldassare Estense. It dates from 1450 and is held in the collection of the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.
About this work
Overview
Mater Dolorosa is a painting created by Italian artist Baldassare Estense around 1450. It is a representative work from the early Renaissance period.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the Virgin Mary in a state of sorrowful contemplation, her eyes closed and hands clasped together. The gold crown and halo signify her importance, while her attire and the dark background evoke a sense of reverence.
Technique & Style
Estense's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth, drawing attention to the subject's face and hands. The contrast between light and dark adds dimension to the figure, set against a somber background flanked by stone columns.
History & Provenance
Baldassare Estense, trained under Cosimo Tura, was active as a painter and medallist in Ferrara until at least 1504. The painting is now part of the collection at Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Baldassare Estense (ca. 1443 – after 1504) was an Italian painter. He was born in Reggio, has been supposed to have been an illegitimate scion of the house of Este, since no mention of his father's name ever occurs in…
