Artwork

Maria mit Kind und den Hll. Katharina von Siena, Katharina von Alexandrien, Maria Magdalena, Dominikus, Petrus Martyr und einer Märtyrerin

Maria mit Kind und den Hll. Katharina von Siena, Katharina von Alexandrien, Maria Magdalena, Dominikus, Petrus Martyr und einer Märtyrerin is an unspecified painting by the High Renaissance artist Mariotto Albertinelli. It dates from 1510 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1510 painting by Mariotto Albertinelli, a Florentine artist of the High Renaissance, features the Virgin Mary with the Christ Child, surrounded by six saints in a half-circular arrangement.

Subject & Meaning

At the center, the Virgin Mary, distinguished by a golden halo and blue robe, holds the Christ Child, drawing the attention of the encircling saints. These include Catherine of Siena, Catherine of Alexandria, Mary Magdalene, Dominic, Peter Martyr, and an unidentified female martyr. The composition emphasizes the Virgin's central role, with the saints reacting to her presence.

Technique & Style

Albertinelli employs chiaroscuro to create depth, leveraging light and shadow. His style, influenced by collaborations with Fra Bartolomeo, blends conservative religious themes with classical elements, characteristic of the High Renaissance.

History & Provenance

Created in 1510, the painting is part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum's collection. Albertinelli's work during this period reflects his versatility in religious art, ranging from traditional to grandly classical styles.

Context

The inclusion of specific saints (e.g., Dominic, a founder of the Dominican Order) and the Latin-inscribed wooden box (possibly a prayer or dedication) suggest the painting may have been commissioned for a religious order or a patron with specific devotional interests.

Legacy

While not widely discussed in broad art historical narratives, this work contributes to the understanding of Albertinelli's contribution to High Renaissance religious art, particularly in its balanced blend of traditional and classical influences.