Artwork
The Virgin and Child
The Virgin and Child is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. It dates from 1660 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Overview
This painting, created in 1660 by Spanish Baroque artist Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, is a religious oil painting depicting the Virgin Mary with the Christ Child. It is part of the collection at the Museo del Prado in Madrid.
Subject & Meaning
The work portrays the Virgin Mary seated with the Christ Child on her lap. The subject is a traditional Christian theme, characteristic of Murillo’s religious compositions.
Technique & Style
Murillo employed chiaroscuro, using a dark background to create a soft glow around the figures’ faces. This contrast highlights the vibrant red of Mary’s dress and the white of her collar, as well as the child’s light drapery.
History & Provenance
Painted in 1660, the work is attributed to Murillo’s active period. It is now held in the Museo del Prado’s collection in Madrid.
Context
Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (1618-1682), a prominent Spanish Baroque painter, was known for both religious scenes and everyday life depictions, often of children and street scenes.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Bartolomé Esteban Murillo ( mure-IL-oh, m(y)uu-REE-oh, Spanish: ; late December 1617, baptised 1 January 1618 – 3 April 1682) was a Spanish Baroque painter.
