Artwork

Madonna mit Kind, von Engeln umgeben

Madonna mit Kind, von Engeln umgeben, by Francesco Floriani, unspecified, 1565
Madonna mit Kind, von Engeln umgeben, by Francesco Floriani, unspecified, 1565

Madonna mit Kind, von Engeln umgeben is an unspecified painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Francesco Floriani. It dates from 1565 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

A woman sits on a throne-like chair holding three small children, while two cherub-like babies with wings kneel below.

A woman sits on a throne-like chair holding three small children, while two cherub-like babies with wings kneel below. She wears a red robe over a green dress with gold trim, and one child holds a bowl of fruit. The background is dark with a rocky texture, and the figures look soft and rounded.

The artist signed the bottom: "FRANCISCUS FLOREANVS FACIEBAT M.D.LXV." That’s Latin for "Francesco Floriani made this in 1565." The little winged babies are called *putti*—they often show up in old religious art.

Next, look up putti to see how they’ve changed over time.

Overview

Madonna mit Kind, von Engeln umgeben is a 1565 religious painting by Francesco Floriani, housed at the Kunsthistorisches Museum. The work depicts the Madonna seated on a throne-like chair, surrounded by three small children and two winged putti kneeling below.

Subject & Meaning

The painting represents a devotional scene, with the Madonna (Virgin Mary) as the central figure, emphasizing maternal care and divine presence. The inclusion of putti (cherub-like babies) and a child holding a bowl of fruit may symbolize innocence, abundance, and the sacred.

Technique & Style

Floriani's technique is characterized by soft, rounded figures set against a dark, rocky-textured background. The Madonna's attire features a red robe over a green dress with gold trim, showcasing the artist's use of color and detail. The overall style suggests a blend of Renaissance elements with a touch of mannerism in the figural treatment.

History & Provenance

Created in 1565, the painting is signed and dated by the artist: 'FRANCISCUS FLOREANVS FACIEBAT M.D.LXV.' It is currently part of the collection at the Kunsthistorisches Museum, though its provenance history prior to museum acquisition is not detailed here.

Context

The use of putti in the painting reflects a common motif in Renaissance religious art, symbolizing heavenly presence. The scene's composition and the artist's style place the work within the broader context of 16th-century Italian religious painting.

Legacy

While specific influences or direct artistic lineage are not highlighted in the provided details, 'Madonna mit Kind, von Engeln umgeben' contributes to the broader legacy of Renaissance Madonna portrayals, exemplifying period themes and artistic conventions.

Artist & collection

Artist

Francesco Floriani

Francesco Floriani (1500–1586) was an artist, born in Udine.