Artwork

The Virgin and Child

The Virgin and Child, by German 15th Century, ink, 1470
The Virgin and Child, by German 15th Century, ink, 1470

The Virgin and Child is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1470 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Virgin and Child is a woodcut print depicting a traditional Christian scene. The composition features the Virgin Mary and the Christ child in a simple landscape setting.

Subject & Meaning

The Virgin Mary is portrayed wearing a long robe and a crown, holding a scepter in her right hand and the Christ child in her left. The child, also crowned, holds a cross, symbolizing his future role. Plants at the Virgin's feet add a natural element to the sacred scene.

Technique & Style

Executed in woodcut, the print exhibits detailed, realistic renderings characteristic of the Renaissance. The style emphasizes attention to detail and realism, typical of the period.

Context

The work reflects the artistic and religious sensibilities of the Renaissance, a time when traditional Christian subjects were reinterpreted with heightened realism and detail.

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.