Artwork

The Madonna and Child with the Abbot Ludwig von Churchwalden

The Madonna and Child with the Abbot Ludwig von Churchwalden, by Wolfgang The Goldsmith, ink, 1477
The Madonna and Child with the Abbot Ludwig von Churchwalden, by Wolfgang The Goldsmith, ink, 1477

The Madonna and Child with the Abbot Ludwig von Churchwalden is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Wolfgang The Goldsmith. It dates from 1477 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Madonna and Child with the Abbot Ludwig von Churchwalden is a 1477 engraving by Wolfgang The Goldsmith, depicting a religious scene within an intricately framed composition.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving portrays the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child, positioned in an arched doorway. A kneeling figure, identified as Abbot Ludwig von Churchwalden, is shown in devotion behind them, clad in ornate robes. Symbolic elements include the child's flower.

Technique & Style

Wolfgang The Goldsmith employed fine lines, nuanced shading, and detailed textures to achieve depth, notably in the folds of robes and stone steps. The print is bordered by swirling patterns and small crosses, with antiquated typography at the top and bottom.

History & Provenance

Created in 1477, specific details about the engraving's historical ownership or exhibition history are not provided in the available information.

Context

This work reflects the prevalent religious themes in 15th-century European art, utilizing the engraving medium to potentially reach a broader audience through print distribution.

Legacy

The engraving's impact or influence on subsequent artistic works is not specified in the given details, though it exemplifies the artistic and technical achievements of its time.

Artist & collection

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