Artwork
Madonna and Child, Madonna with the cherries
Madonna and Child, Madonna with the cherries is a paint painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Joos van Cleve. It dates from 1525 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.
About this work
Overview
Madonna and Child, Madonna with the cherries, a 1525 painting by Joos van Cleve, exemplifies the Northern Renaissance style, blending traditional Early Netherlandish techniques with contemporary influences.
Subject & Meaning
The painting tenderly portrays the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child in an intimate setting, conveying warmth and serenity. Mary, dressed in layered attire, cradles the unclothed Child, who engages with cherries, symbolizing innocence and abundance.
Technique & Style
Van Cleve's work showcases a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary Northern Renaissance elements, characterized by meticulous detail, serene color palette, and a contrasting background landscape.
History & Provenance
Created in 1525, the painting is now part of the collection at the Gemäldegalerie Berlin, reflecting Van Cleve's prominence in Antwerp's artistic scene from 1511 until his death around 1540-1541.
Context
As a leading Antwerp painter, Van Cleve's focus on religious subjects like this Madonna and Child reflects the prevalent themes of his time, catering to the religious and artistic tastes of the Northern Renaissance clientele.
Artist & collection
Artist
Joos van Cleve (; also Joos van der Beke; c. 1485–1490 – 1540/1541) was a leading painter active in Antwerp from his arrival there around 1511 until his death in 1540 or 1541. Within Dutch and Flemish Renaissance…
