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Artwork

Virgin and Child with St. Catherine of Alexandria and Saint Anne (?)

Battista Franco , 1545

Virgin and Child with St. Catherine of Alexandria and Saint Anne (?), by Battista Franco, 1545
Virgin and Child with St. Catherine of Alexandria and Saint Anne (?), by Battista Franco, 1545

Virgin and Child with St. Catherine of Alexandria and Saint Anne (?) is a drawing by the Renaissance artist Battista Franco. It dates from 1545 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1965.16
Credit line
Delia E. Holden Fund

About this work

Overview

This drawing by Battista Franco depicts the Virgin Mary and Christ child accompanied by two female saints. The composition is characterized by twisting, dynamic figures.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows the Virgin and Child flanked by Saints Catherine and possibly Anne. The identities of the saints are suggested by their presence and actions, but the exact subject is not definitively established.

Technique & Style

Franco's drawing is marked by sinuous, twisting forms and a soft, shaded treatment that creates a sense of movement and depth. The figures' poses and the overall composition reflect the influence of Michelangelo's work.

Context

Franco was active in the period immediately following Michelangelo's work on the Sistine Chapel ceiling. His drawing style and compositional choices reflect the impact of Michelangelo's innovations.

The Virgin and Child Surrounded by Saints and Angels
The Virgin and Child Surrounded by Saints and Angels, Fra Bartolommeo

Artist & collection

Portrait of Battista Franco

Artist

Battista Franco

Battista Franco Veneziano (c. 1510 - 1561), baptized Giovanni Battista Franco, was an Italian Mannerist painter and printmaker in etching active in Rome, Urbino, and Venice in the mid 16th century. He is also known as…

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VISUALLY SIMILAR

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Virgin and Child with St. Catherine of Alexandria and Saint Anne (?)?

Virgin and Child with St. Catherine of Alexandria and Saint Anne (?) was painted by Battista Franco in 1545.

Where can I see Virgin and Child with St. Catherine of Alexandria and Saint Anne (?)?

Virgin and Child with St. Catherine of Alexandria and Saint Anne (?) is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Virgin and Child with St. Catherine of Alexandria and Saint Anne (?)?

Virgin and Child with St. Catherine of Alexandria and Saint Anne (?) is associated with Renaissance.