Artwork
Virgin and Child on the Throne
Virgin and Child on the Throne is an unspecified painting by the Early Renaissance artist Neri di Bicci. It dates from 1450 and is held in the collection of the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.
About this work
Overview
Virgin and Child on the Throne, painted circa 1450 by Neri di Bicci, is a quintessential early Renaissance religious painting. This altarpiece-style work features the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child in a traditional composition, characterized by the use of chiaroscuro, with gold accents set against a dark background.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Mary seated on a throne, dressed in a red underdress and blue robe, with a gold halo. She cradles the Christ Child, who is wrapped in white and also haloed. The serene scene emphasizes devotion to sacred figures, typical of the period’s religious art.
Technique & Style
Neri di Bicci employed chiaroscuro to create depth, contrasting dark tones with gold details on the throne, canopy, and halos. The calm facial expressions and the Christ Child’s gesture add a sense of quiet intimacy.
History & Provenance
Part of a lineage of painters, Neri di Bicci followed in his family’s tradition of producing primarily religious works. The painting is now held by the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.
Artist & collection
Artist
Neri di Bicci (1419–1491) was an Italian painter active in his native Florence. A prolific painter of mainly religious themes, he studied under his father, Bicci di Lorenzo, who had in turn studied under his father,…
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