Artwork

The Madonna and Child in a Rosary

The Madonna and Child in a Rosary, by French 15th Century, ink, 1490
The Madonna and Child in a Rosary, by French 15th Century, ink, 1490

The Madonna and Child in a Rosary is an ink print by the Renaissance artist French 15th Century. It dates from 1490 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Madonna and Child in a Rosary is a hand-colored woodcut print depicting a scene of religious significance. The image is characterized by its use of multiple colors and a distinctive printing technique.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows the Virgin Mary holding the Christ child, surrounded by two winged figures, likely angels. The figures are dressed in flowing robes and are set against a decorative border featuring circles and leaves.

Technique & Style

The image was created using a woodcut technique, where the design was carved into a wooden block and printed. The colors were then applied by hand, likely using stencils to achieve a degree of uniformity, in shades of mauve purple, vermilion, and gray-blue, with gold accents.

Artist & collection

Portrait of French 15th Century

Artist

French 15th Century

This artist hid their best work inside old travel trunks. They glued vivid woodcuts into the lids of wooden boxes meant to be carried on horseback, like secret postcards from God. If you’ve ever pried open a cracked lid…

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