Artwork
Madonna and Child
Madonna and Child is a tempera painting by the Byzantine icon painting artist Paolo di Giovanni Fei. It dates from 1370 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The painting shows the Virgin Mary holding the infant Christ in a tender embrace, a composition that underscores maternal care and divine intimacy.
The painting shows the Virgin Mary holding the infant Christ in a tender embrace, a composition that underscores maternal care and divine intimacy. Mary is depicted barefoot and seated on a simple cushion, while the child reaches for her breast, highlighting themes of nourishment and humility. Embroidered details on Mary’s garment signal domestic virtue, and the overall iconography aligns with traditional Madonna and Child imagery, emphasizing both human and sacred motherhood.
Created in 1370 by Paolo di Giovanni Fei, the work is executed in tempera on panel and is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection.
Technique & Style
Paolo di Giovanni Fei's Madonna and Child (1370) is a religious painting executed in tempera on a wooden panel. The artwork measures 68.6 cm in height and 42.9 cm in width. Stylistically, the composition adheres to traditional iconographic conventions of the period, depicting the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child.
The formal qualities emphasize icon-like religious symbolism and the theme of motherhood, with specific visual details including the Madonna breastfeeding the Child, her barefoot portrayal, and the intricate rendering of embroidery. These elements collectively highlight the devotional and intimate nature of the piece.
Overview
This painting, titled "Madonna and Child," depicts a woman tenderly holding an infant. Executed in tempera, the artwork features a serene female figure dressed in a pink robe and blue headscarf, cradling a light-skinned baby. A rich gold background with intricate patterns frames the composition, emphasizing the central figures.
The piece is notable for its bright, yet simple, color palette and the calm demeanor of the Madonna contrasted with the child’s curious gaze.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Paolo di Giovanni Fei (c. 1345 – c. 1411) was a painter of the Sienese school. He came to Siena from San Quirico, Castelvecchio, held public positions in Siena from 1369 and was first mentioned in the Sienese register…
![Madonna and Child, with the Blessing Christ [middle panel], by Martino di Bartolomeo](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/martino-di-bartolomeo--madonna-and-child-with-the-blessing-christ-middle-panel--9e7ebbf6d3ba8295-w320.webp)
