1490
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Madonna and Child in a Rosary is a 1490 ink by French 15th Century, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This image shows a woman holding a baby, surrounded by a glowing circle of rays. The rays have little red dots like a string of beads. Around the edges, there are flowers, leaves, and small shapes that look like musical instruments or vases. The woman’s face is simple, with soft lines and a gentle expression. The colors are muted—light purple, pink, and gray—giving it a quiet, peaceful feel. Next, look up woodcut to see how this print was made.
This artist hid their best work inside old travel trunks. They glued vivid woodcuts into the lids of wooden boxes meant to be carried on horseback, like secret postcards from God. If you’ve ever pried open a cracked lid…
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