Artwork
Mary with the child adored by four saints
Mary with the child adored by four saints is a paint painting by the Early Renaissance artist Domenico Ghirlandaio. It is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.
About this work
Overview
This 1496 painting by Domenico Ghirlandaio depicts a sacred scene from Christian tradition. The work is characteristic of the early Renaissance, a period of renewed interest in classical themes and techniques.
Subject & Meaning
The painting shows the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child, surrounded by four saints and three angelic figures. The saints, identifiable by their attributes, pay homage to the central figures, conveying a sense of reverence and devotion.
Technique & Style
Ghirlandaio's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that exploits contrasts between light and dark, creates a sense of depth and volume in the figures. The artist's skillful handling of light draws attention to the faces and hands of the figures, setting them apart from the surrounding environment.
History & Provenance
Ghirlandaio, a prominent Florentine painter, created this work in the late 15th century. As the head of a large workshop, he trained numerous apprentices, including family members, and was part of a circle of artists that included notable figures like Verrocchio and Botticelli.
Artist & collection
Artist
Domenico di Tommaso Curradi di Doffo Bigordi (2 June 1448 – 11 January 1494), professionally known as Domenico Ghirlandaio (also spelt as Ghirlandajo), was an Italian Renaissance painter born in Florence.
Maria mit Kind und den hll. Katharina von Siena, Sebastian, Franziskus, Petronius, Klara und Stifter
Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saints
Maria mit Kind und vier Heiligen
Virgin and Child enthroned with SS. Peter, Paul, Francis and Anthony of Padua
Madonna and Child
Maria mit Kind und den Hll. Katharina von Siena, Katharina von Alexandrien, Maria Magdalena, Dominikus, Petrus Martyr und einer Märtyrerin
Presentation of Christ in the Temple