Artwork
Virgin and Child
Virgin and Child is an unspecified painting by the Mannerist artist Luis de Morales. It dates from 1557 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.
About this work
Overview
Virgin and Child is a 16th-century painting by Luis de Morales, a Spanish artist known for his devotional works. The painting is part of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Mary holding the Christ Child, their faces turned towards the viewer. The figures are dressed in simple, yet distinct attire, with Mary wearing a dark green dress and the child in light pink.
Technique & Style
The artist employs chiaroscuro, a technique using strong contrasts between light and dark, to create a sense of depth and volume. The figures appear three-dimensional against the plain, dark background, with light highlighting their faces and skin.
History & Provenance
Created around 1557, Virgin and Child is characteristic of the Mannerist movement. It is a representative work of Luis de Morales, who was nicknamed 'El Divino' for the spiritual quality of his art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Luis de Morales (1509 – 9 May 1586) was a Spanish painter active during the Spanish Renaissance in the 16th century.
