Artwork

The Virgin and Child with Infant John the Baptist and Angels

The Virgin and Child with Infant John the Baptist and Angels, by Lucas Cranach the Elder, oil, 1522
The Virgin and Child with Infant John the Baptist and Angels, by Lucas Cranach the Elder, oil, 1522

The Virgin and Child with Infant John the Baptist and Angels is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Lucas Cranach the Elder. It dates from 1522 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.

About this work

Overview

The Virgin and Child with Infant John the Baptist and Angels is an oil painting created by Lucas Cranach the Elder around 1522. It is now held at the National Gallery of Ireland.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the Virgin Mary holding the Christ child, accompanied by the infant John the Baptist and four cherubs. The figures are arranged centrally, with Mary gazing down at the Christ child.

Technique & Style

The dominant colors are dark, with accents of red and gold. The subjects are set against a dark background, creating a sense of depth. The artist's use of oil paint allows for rich, detailed rendering of textures and expressions.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Lucas Cranach the Elder

Artist

Lucas Cranach the Elder

Lucas Cranach the Elder was a German Renaissance painter and printmaker in woodcut and engraving.