Artwork
The Virgin and Child with the young St John the Baptist
The Virgin and Child with the young St John the Baptist is an oil painting by the High Renaissance artist Raphael. It dates from 1511 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.
About this work
Overview
This painting, created around 1511 by Raphael, portrays a serene religious scene in oil paint. It is currently housed at the Ashmolean Museum.
Subject & Meaning
The composition centers on the Virgin Mary, seated and clad in traditional attire, holding the infant Jesus. Jesus extends his hand towards the youthful Saint John the Baptist, who stands adjacent, staff in hand, symbolizing an early encounter between the two figures.
Technique & Style
Raphael employed chiaroscuro to achieve profound depth, contrasting light on the figures with a dark, form-accentuating background. This technique enhances the three-dimensionality of the subjects.
History & Provenance
While the painting's early history is not detailed here, it is known to be part of the Ashmolean Museum's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Raphael was born Raffaello Sanzio in Urbino on April 6, 1483, the son of Giovanni Santi, a painter and poet attached to the ducal court.
Madonna and Child with the Little St. John Baptist
Virgin and Child with Saint Anne
The Holy Family with the Infant Saint John the Baptist
The Virgin and the Child with St John the Baptist, St John the Evangelist and an Angel
The Virgin and Child
Madonna and Child with the Young Saint John the Baptist
Virgin and Child with St. John
Madonna and Child (Madonna della Seggiola)