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Madonna as a Protectress

German 15th Century

1475

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Renaissance Renaissance Religious

Dominant colour

Madonna as a Protectress is a 1475 ink by German 15th Century, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: German 15th Century
When & what style?: 1475 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

The painting depicts the Madonna as a Protectress, surrounded by a group of people. The Madonna is dressed in a long red robe and wears a crown on her head. She stands in the center of the image, with her arms outstretched to protect the people around her. The people are shown in various poses, some kneeling, others standing, and they all appear to be looking up at the Madonna with reverence. The background of the painting is a simple white, which helps to focus attention on the Madonna and the people around her. The overall effect of the painting is one of serenity and protection, as if the Madonna is watching over the people and keeping them safe. This woodcut painting is a fine example of Renaissance art, and you can learn more about the movement by exploring the Renaissance.