Artwork
Virgin and Child
Virgin and Child is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Cornelis van Cleve. It dates from 1570 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.
About this work
Overview
This oil painting, titled 'Virgin and Child', is a 16th-century work by Cornelis van Cleve, a Flemish artist known for his religious scenes.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Mary holding the Christ Child, both figures exuding calmness and gentleness. The scene is made relatable by the baby's natural gesture of eating.
Technique & Style
The artist achieved a soft, serene effect through layered color and subtle chiaroscuro, a technique using contrasting light and shadow. The dark background focuses attention on the figures.
History & Provenance
Created around 1570, 'Virgin and Child' is part of the Northern Renaissance movement and is now held in the Fitzwilliam Museum's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Cornelis van Cleve, Cornelis van Cleef or Cornelis van der Beke, nickname Sotte Cleve ('Mad Cleve') (1520 in Antwerp – 1567/1614) was a Flemish Renaissance painter active in Antwerp who is known for his religious compositions and portraits.
