Artwork

The Virgin and Child with Saints

The Virgin and Child with Saints, by Domenico Campagnola, ink, 1517
The Virgin and Child with Saints, by Domenico Campagnola, ink, 1517

The Virgin and Child with Saints is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Domenico Campagnola. It dates from 1517 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Virgin and Child with Saints is a religious engraving by Domenico Campagnola, dated to 1517. It depicts a serene scene of the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child accompanied by saints in a natural, wooded environment.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving portrays the Virgin Mary standing with the Christ Child, surrounded by two additional figures, likely saints, who are depicted in poses of reverence. The overall mood is one of calm devotion, emphasizing the sacred nature of the gathering.

Technique & Style

Campagnola employed fine, intricate lines and nuanced shading to achieve depth and texture, particularly evident in the rendering of robes and foliage. This meticulous linework aligns with the detailed aesthetic characteristic of Renaissance printmaking.

History & Provenance

Created in 1517, specific details regarding the engraving's provenance and historical context beyond its creation date are not provided.

Context

As a Renaissance engraving, this work reflects the period's emphasis on detailed, expressive printmaking. The use of metal plates (common in engraving) would have allowed for widespread dissemination of the image.

Legacy

While specific legacy details are not provided, the engraving exemplifies the enduring influence of Renaissance print techniques on subsequent artistic periods.

Artist & collection

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