Artwork
Madonna Enthroned with Eight Angels
Madonna Enthroned with Eight Angels is a print by the Renaissance artist Master E.S.. It dates from 1467 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
The throne has ornate carvings and a canopy above it, and the whole scene looks like it’s framed by an architectural border.
This print shows a woman seated on a throne, holding a small child. Around her are eight winged figures, some standing, some kneeling, all dressed in flowing robes. The throne has ornate carvings and a canopy above it, and the whole scene looks like it’s framed by an architectural border.
Notice how the figures all have soft, rounded faces and gentle expressions. The artist used smooth lines to show the folds in the fabric and the wings, making everything look delicate.
Look up Master ES (German, active 1450–67) next to see more of their work.
Overview
Madonna Enthroned with Eight Angels is a late Gothic period engraving created in 1467 by Master ES, an unidentified German artist known for his contributions to early old master prints as an engraver, goldsmith, and printmaker.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts the Virgin Mary enthroned with her infant, encircled by eight angels, embodying the prevalent religious themes in Master ES's oeuvre.
Technique & Style
Characterized by smooth lines, the work features delicate renderings of fabric folds, wings, and architectural details, with figures distinguished by soft, rounded faces and gentle expressions.
History & Provenance
Signed with the monogram 'E.S.', this piece is part of Master ES's notable output as the first major German artist in old master prints, active between 1450 and 1467.
Artist & collection
Artist
Master E. S. (c. 1420 – c. 1468; previously known as the Master of 1466) is an unidentified German engraver, goldsmith, and printmaker of the late Gothic period. He was the first major German artist of old master prints…
Enthroned Virgin and Child, with Angels
Madonna and Child Enthroned
The Madonna and Child on the Crescent Supported by Four Angels
Madonna and Child in a Garden between St. Barbara and st. Dorothy
The Coronation of the Virgin
The Madonna with the Clock
The Annunciation
The Presentation in the Temple
The Holy Family
Virgin Crowned by Two Angels