Artwork
The Virgin and Child Enthroned
The Virgin and Child Enthroned is a paint painting by Master of the Pala Sforzesca. It dates from 1451 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin. Created around 1451, this panel painting portrays the Virgin Mary enthroned with the infant Christ on her lap.
About this work
Overview
Created around 1451, this panel painting portrays the Virgin Mary enthroned with the infant Christ on her lap. Executed by the anonymous Master of the Pala Sforzesca, the work is part of the collection of the Gemäldegalerie in Berlin and exemplifies mid‑15th‑century devotional imagery.
Subject & Meaning
The composition centers on Mary, seated on an ornate throne, her red, wavy hair framing a serene expression. She cradles the nude Christ Child, whose right arm reaches outward while his left rests on her hand, a gesture that underscores both his humanity and divine connection.
Technique & Style
Rich, saturated hues dominate the scene: a deep green robe edged in gold, a red under‑dress, and a luminous blue background. A gold‑framed lunette window with decorative motifs and flanking candlesticks adds spatial depth, while careful modeling of fabrics and skin conveys texture and intimacy.
History & Provenance
Attributed to the Master of the Pala Sforzesca, an artist active in northern Italy during the early Renaissance, the painting entered the Berlin Gemäldegalerie collection in the 20th century. Its provenance prior to museum acquisition remains documented only through stylistic links to the Sforzesca altarpiece.
Artist & collection
![Madonna and Child [obverse], by Albrecht Dürer](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/albrecht-durer--madonna-and-child-obverse--d7b8ebf05d22ebe5-w320.webp)
