Artwork

Madonna in a Rosary with Saints

Madonna in a Rosary with Saints, by German 15th Century, ink, 1500
Madonna in a Rosary with Saints, by German 15th Century, ink, 1500

Madonna in a Rosary with Saints is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1500 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This woodcut print depicts the Madonna holding the baby Jesus, accompanied by kneeling saints with golden halos.

About this work

Overview

This woodcut print depicts the Madonna holding the baby Jesus, accompanied by kneeling saints with golden halos. A rosary is prominently placed at Mary's feet.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a devotional scene emphasizing the veneration of the Madonna and the significance of the rosary in Catholic prayer. The inclusion of saints underscores a communal aspect of religious devotion.

Technique & Style

Executed as a woodcut, the image was printed from carved wooden blocks. Subsequent hand-coloring in a muted palette of red, ochre, green, gray, and tan adds depth, with the golden halos providing a touch of luminosity.

History & Provenance

While specific historical details about the print's creation and ownership history are not provided, its technique and subject matter align with common practices in religious printmaking of its time. It is now part of the collection at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

Context

This work reflects the widespread use of woodcuts for religious imagery in the period, making sacred subjects accessible to a broad audience. The hand-coloring process, though labor-intensive, was common for enhancing such prints.

Legacy

As part of the National Gallery of Art's collection, this print contributes to the understanding and appreciation of woodcut techniques and religious art from its era, offering a tangible example for study and comparison with other woodcuts in the gallery.

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.