Matteo di Giovanni The Madonna and Child with Saint John the Baptist and the Archangel Michael Siena, about 1490 Tempera on wood 57.9 x 40.4 cm Christ rests his foot in the Virgin Mary’s cloak in a gesture of intimacy and comfort. The coral beads around Christ neck and wrist symbolise his blood. Behind Christ … Read more
Probably by Bernardino Lanino Madonna and Child with Saint Mary Magdalene and a Bishop Possibly Turin, early 1540/43 Black chalk on paper 833 x 900 mm This is a cartoon, or full-scale preparatory drawing, for part of Lanino’s Madonna and Child Adored by Saints altarpiece now in the National Gallery, London. This altarpiece was executed … Read more
Studio of Andrea del Sarto (1486-1530) The Virgin Mary, Infant Christ, and Saint John the Baptist Florence, about 1520 Oil on wood 55.3 x 39 cm Christ stands on his mother’s lap, with his cousin John smiling eagerly behind. John points towards Jesus, signalling his importance. Christ reaches out towards us, and Mary gently restrains … Read more
Studio of Sandro Botticelli The Virgin Mary, Infant Christ, and Saint John the Baptist Florence, about 1500 Tempera on canvas 130.7 x 91.4 cm Mary arches to the left as she lowers her son, Jesus, towards his cousin, John the Baptist. The elaborate garments that wrap around Mary’s head, neck and shoulders restrict her movement … Read more
Unknown Venetian Artist The Madonna Enthroned with Saint John the Baptist and Saint Mary Magdalen Venice, late 14th century Tempera on wood 27.2 x 40 cm This is a fully intact, portable triptych (painting of three parts). Most early Italian paintings were divided to be sold more easily on the art market and now only … Read more
Valerio Castello The Madonna and Child, with Saint Peter and Saint Paul, Appearing to Saint Bruno in a Vision Genoa, about 1650 Oil on canvas 118 x 145.5 cm Saint Bruno (about 1030 – 1101) is shown in the white habit of the Carthusian monks whose order he founded. In his vision he sees the … Read more