Artwork
The Virgin and Child with the infant Baptist
The Virgin and Child with the infant Baptist is an oil painting by the Early Renaissance artist Mariotto Albertinelli. It dates from 1509 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.
About this work
Overview
The Virgin and Child with the Infant Baptist is a 1509 oil painting by Mariotto Albertinelli, an Italian Renaissance artist. It is part of the Fitzwilliam Museum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus, who reaches out to the infant John the Baptist. The scene conveys a sense of quiet intimacy and devotion among the three figures.
Technique & Style
Albertinelli's use of chiaroscuro creates depth and volume in the figures, drawing attention to the central group. A warm color palette is employed, with the Virgin's dark robe contrasting with the lighter tones of the infants' skin.
Context
The work is characteristic of Albertinelli's style, which ranged from conservative to classicizing grandeur, and was influenced by his collaboration with Fra Bartolomeo.
Artist & collection
Artist
Mariotto di Bindo di Biagio Albertinelli (13 October 1474 – 5 November 1515) was an Italian Renaissance painter active in Florence.
