Artwork

Virgin of Mercy

Virgin of Mercy, by Unknown, oil, 1750
Virgin of Mercy, by Unknown, oil, 1750

Virgin of Mercy is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Brooklyn Museum.

About this work

The Virgin of Mercy is a common subject in religious art, and this painting is an example of the style of art that was popular during the 18th century.

This painting depicts the Virgin of Mercy, a religious figure. She is shown wearing a long robe and holding her arms out to the sides, with a group of people gathered around her.

The Virgin is surrounded by a decorative frame, which is ornately carved with leaves and other designs. The frame is painted white, which contrasts with the darker colors used in the rest of the painting.

The Virgin of Mercy is a common subject in religious art, and this painting is an example of the style of art that was popular during the 18th century. To learn more about this style, you can look up the technique of chiaroscuro.

Overview

This 18th-century oil painting depicts the Virgin of Mercy, a revered religious figure, in a characteristic pose of benevolence.

Subject & Meaning

The Virgin is shown wearing a long robe, with arms outstretched to a gathered group, embodying protection and compassion, a common theme in religious art of the time.

Technique & Style

The work features a strong contrast between the Virgin's darker attire and the white, ornately carved frame (painted to resemble intricate carvings with leaves and designs), suggesting the use of chiaroscuro, a technique popular during this period.

Context

The painting reflects the artistic preferences of the 18th century, with the Virgin of Mercy being a frequently depicted subject in religious art of that era.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Brooklyn Museum

Museum

Brooklyn Museum

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