Artwork

Madonna and Child Seated on a Grassy Bank with Angels

Madonna and Child Seated on a Grassy Bank with Angels, by German 15th Century, ink, 1485
Madonna and Child Seated on a Grassy Bank with Angels, by German 15th Century, ink, 1485

Madonna and Child Seated on a Grassy Bank with Angels is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1485 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This print depicts a seated woman holding a child, accompanied by two winged figures, on a grassy bank.

About this work

Overview

This print depicts a seated woman holding a child, accompanied by two winged figures, on a grassy bank. Created using a woodcut technique, it is hand-colored with various hues and features tarnished silver leaf.

Subject & Meaning

The presence of angels and a crown suggests a religious theme, likely representing the Madonna and Child. The scene's symbolism is characteristic of traditional Christian iconography.

Technique & Style

The woodcut technique, used to produce this image, results in flat, stylized figures. Hand-coloring adds vibrancy, with gold, blue, and red standing out against a dark background. The print's worn edges and chipped paint indicate age and handling.

Context

The woodcut method was a common printing technique at the time, allowing for mass production of images. The style and technique used here are consistent with early printmaking practices.

Artist & collection

Portrait of German 15th Century

Artist

German 15th Century

This 15th-century German artist carved vivid religious scenes into metal and wood, then hand-painted them in bright, symbolic colors.

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