Who painted The Virgin of the Rocks?

The Virgin of the Rocks was painted by Unknown in 1650.

Where can I see The Virgin of the Rocks?

The Virgin of the Rocks is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

Artwork

The Virgin of the Rocks

The Virgin of the Rocks is a photography by Unknown. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

The work titled The Virgin of the Rocks dates to around 1650 and is attributed to the artist known as 845_person. It is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography. The composition presents a dimly lit cavern populated by three figures, centered on a woman in blue who cradles a golden object while two infants reach toward her.

Subject & Meaning

Within the rocky interior, the central female figure is portrayed in a blue garment, suggesting a sacred or maternal role, as she holds a luminous golden item. Two children, rendered with delicate skin details, extend their hands toward her, while a second woman in red kneels nearby, gesturing toward one of the infants, hinting at a narrative of guidance or blessing.

Technique & Style

The painting employs a strong chiaroscuro effect, with the woman's face illuminated against the surrounding shadows, creating a dramatic contrast that emphasizes volume and form. Fine brushwork captures minute features such as the infants’ curls and subtle skin folds, while the background recedes into darkness, punctuated only by faint, distant city lights that add depth to the scene.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1650, the piece has remained in the possession of the Museum of Ethnography, where it is displayed as part of the institution’s holdings of 17th‑century works. Its attribution to 845_person has been accepted by the museum’s curatorial staff, and the work has been catalogued under that name in the museum’s records.