Who painted Virgin and Child?

Virgin and Child was painted by Hans Memling in 1485.

Where can I see Virgin and Child?

Virgin and Child is held by Art Institute of Chicago.

What movement is Virgin and Child?

Virgin and Child is associated with Northern Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Virgin and Child?

Museum-quality prints of Virgin and Child are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Virgin and Child

Hans Memling , 1485

Virgin and Child is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Hans Memling. It dates from 1485 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

Virgin and Child is an oil-on-panel painting depicting Mary holding Jesus. It was once part of a diptych, hinged to another panel.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows Mary, dressed in blue and red, holding the infant Jesus. The scene is set within a lavish, colorful interior. Visual elements, such as a reflection in a convex mirror, suggest a connection between the sacred space and the viewer's world.

Technique & Style

The diptych's exterior featured a grisaille image of Saint Anthony of Padua on the reverse of the companion panel, creating a monochromatic transition to the colorful interior. The artist's use of visual cues, like a sandaled toe stepping on the frame, reinforces the connection between the two spaces.

History & Provenance

The diptych was likely created by Hans Memling, a known artist of the period. The companion panel is now separated, with the portrait of a man in prayer in poor condition and the grisaille image of Saint Anthony relatively well-preserved.