Artwork

Madonna and Child

Madonna and Child, by Master of the Dutuit Mount of Olives, ink, 1460
Madonna and Child, by Master of the Dutuit Mount of Olives, ink, 1460

Madonna and Child is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Master of the Dutuit Mount of Olives. It dates from 1460 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Madonna and Child is a 15th-century religious engraving attributed to the Master of the Dutuit Mount of Olives, dating to around 1460.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving portrays the Madonna seated on a bench with the infant Jesus in her lap. Both figures are haloed, with the Madonna wearing a headband and long robe, and Jesus in simple attire, holding an unspecified object. The composition centers the pair against a plain background.

Technique & Style

The artist employed meticulous lines and shading techniques to achieve a sense of depth and texture, characteristic of early Renaissance printmaking.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1460, specific details on the engraving's history and ownership prior to its current location are not provided.

Context

This work reflects the religious themes prevalent in 15th-century European art, aligning with the devotional practices of the time.

Legacy

As a print, Madonna and Child would have contributed to the widespread dissemination of religious imagery during the Renaissance, though its direct influence on later art is not specified.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.