Virgin and Child with Saints Sebastian and Roch

Artist Bernardino Luini (Italian, 1480 – 1532)

Date1530

MediumOil on wood

DimensionsFrame: 83 3/4 H x 76 1/2 W x 4 1/2 D in. (212.7 x 194.3 x 11.5 cm)
Unframed support: 68 11/16 H x 60 1/2 W x 1 3/8 D in. (174.5 x 153.7 x 3.5 cm)

ClassificationsPaintings

Credit LineBequest of John Ringling, 1936

Object numberSN37

In contrast with the grand thrones shown in other paintings in this gallery, here the majestic Virgin and Child are seated on a large rock. Their monumentality, white marble-like flesh, and the physique and pose of the semi-nude Saint Sebastian recall ancient statuary-an important hallmark of Renaissance painting. Saints Sebastian (left) and Roche (right) were usually invoked against the plague, suggesting that this altarpiece may have been painted and venerated during an outbreak of the disease. The dragonfly in the foreground has been interpreted in a number of ways, as perhaps representing Satan, evil in general, or the Orient, the plague's alleged place of origin.

On View

On view

Location