Artwork
The Virgin and Child with Two Angels
The Virgin and Child with Two Angels is an unspecified painting by the High Renaissance artist Lorenzo di Credi. It dates from 1508 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.
About this work
Overview
The Virgin and Child with Two Angels is a painting created by Lorenzo di Credi around 1508, exemplifying the High Renaissance style prevalent in Florence during that period. The work is now part of the National Gallery of Ireland's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a serene scene of the Virgin Mary, dressed in blue with a dark head covering, holding the Christ Child, accompanied by two angels. One angel, in orange, holds a staff, while the other, in red, leans on a pillar. The Christ Child reaches out towards the red-clad angel, suggesting a playful interaction.
Technique & Style
Characterized by soft shadows on the subjects' faces, conveying calmness, the painting showcases di Credi's use of sfumato, a technique blending colors smoothly to achieve depth and harmony, typical of the High Renaissance.
History & Provenance
Lorenzo di Credi, a pupil of Andrea del Verrocchio (where he worked alongside Leonardo da Vinci), created this piece. After its creation around 1508, the painting's ownership trail leads to its current residence in the National Gallery of Ireland.
Context
Produced in the flourishing artistic landscape of Florence in the early 16th century, the painting reflects the city's dominant High Renaissance aesthetic, emphasizing harmony, balance, and emotional depth in religious themes.
Artist & collection
Artist
Lorenzo di Credi (1456/59 – January 12, 1537) was an Italian Renaissance painter and sculptor best known for his paintings of religious subjects, and portraits.
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