Who painted The Madonna and Child with a Pear?

The Madonna and Child with a Pear was painted by German 15th Century in 1450.

Where can I see The Madonna and Child with a Pear?

The Madonna and Child with a Pear is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Madonna and Child with a Pear?

The Madonna and Child with a Pear is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

The Madonna and Child with a Pear

German 15th Century , 1450

The Madonna and Child with a Pear is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1450 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Madonna and Child with a Pear is an engraved print, enhanced with hand-coloring in multiple hues. It depicts a serene scene of the Virgin Mary and Jesus, distinguished by the child's gesture towards a proffered red pear.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a traditional Christian motif, but the inclusion of the pear—a symbol often associated with abundance, fertility, and sometimes temptation—adds a layer of depth to the conventional Madonna and Child theme.

Technique & Style

Executed as an engraving with manual coloring, the piece exemplifies early printed art techniques. The hand-colored lines and shading create depth, contrasting the figures against a luminous background, with radiating light beams enhancing the divine aura.

Context

The artwork's style aligns with the conventions of early printmaking, where metal plates were used to achieve detailed, reproducible images. The hand-coloring aspect, however, adds a unique, personal touch to each print.