Artwork

Painting, Virgin Mary

Painting, Virgin Mary, by Unknown, unspecified, 1450
Painting, Virgin Mary, by Unknown, unspecified, 1450

Painting, Virgin Mary is an unspecified painting by Unknown. It dates from 1450 and is held in the collection of the Hunt Museum. This oil-on-wood painting depicts a somber scene of the Virgin Mary at the Crucifixion, characterized by muted tones and a sense of sorrow.

About this work

Overview

This oil-on-wood painting depicts a somber scene of the Virgin Mary at the Crucifixion, characterized by muted tones and a sense of sorrow.

Subject & Meaning

The Virgin Mary, her head covered in grief, stands at the center. A red-clad figure, likely St. John, supports her from behind. The dangling arm of Christ is positioned near Mary's face, intensifying the emotional impact.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil on a wooden panel, the work's style suggests a focus on conveying emotional depth over intricate detail, typical of devotional art from the period.

History & Provenance

Evidence indicates the painting was once part of a larger composition, later truncated. Its original context and artist remain unspecified due to the alteration.

Context

The practice of reusing or repurposing art pieces, as suggested by this work's history, reflects common practices in the era regarding the adaptation of religious artworks.

Legacy

Now, the painting offers a unique glimpse into both the artistic techniques of its time and the historical practices surrounding the reuse of religious art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Hunt Museum

Museum

Hunt Museum

Continue through works from the same source collection.

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