Virgin and Child with the Young John the Baptist and Three Angels

Artist Domenico Ghirlandaio and Workshop (Italian, 1448/49 - 1494)

Datec. 1500

MediumOil on wood

DimensionsImage: 37 in. (94 cm) diameter
Framed: 51 1/2 H x 51 5/16 W x 3 9/16 D in. (130.8 x 130.3 x 9 cm)

ClassificationsPaintings

Credit LineBequest of John Ringling, 1936

Object numberSN20

This painting presents the Madonna in one of the most common Renaissance types: as a wealthy, contemporary-looking matron playing with her son. Only the presence of angels and the prominent lilies (symbolic of the Resurrection) reveal the sacred context. A very accurate view of Venice is shown through the right hand window however its presence has never been adequately explained. Perhaps this was painted for export to or as a souvenir of Venice. Images of the Virgin and Child were used for religious devotion in the Renaissance home. They were typically hung high on the wall, casting their protection over the whole room. In this elevated position, they also seemed to provide a glimpse into the heavenly realm. The background landscape here is an accurate view of Venice. Unusual in a Tuscan painting, this suggests that the work may have been made for a Venetian patron.

On View

On view

Location