Who painted Madonna and Child?

Madonna and Child was painted by Sebastiano del Piombo in 1547.

Where can I see Madonna and Child?

Madonna and Child is held by Fitzwilliam Museum.

What movement is Madonna and Child?

Madonna and Child is associated with Mannerism.

Artwork

Madonna and Child

Sebastiano del Piombo , 1547

Madonna and Child is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Sebastiano del Piombo. It dates from 1547 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

About this work

Overview

Sebastiano del Piombo’s Madonna and Child (1547) presents a quiet, intimate encounter between the Virgin and the infant Jesus. Executed in oil on panel, the composition centers on the mother’s red mantle and yellow shawl as she cradles the child, whose gaze looks away. A brooding, cloud‑filled sky forms a muted backdrop, emphasizing the tender exchange.

Subject & Meaning

The work portrays the traditional Christian theme of Mary holding the newborn Christ, symbolizing maternal devotion and divine incarnation. The downward glance of the Virgin and the child’s averted eyes suggest a contemplative, private moment rather than a public devotional scene, inviting viewers to reflect on the humanity and tenderness inherent in the sacred relationship.

Technique & Style

Del Piombo combines the luminous color palette of his Venetian training with the sculptural solidity associated with Roman High Renaissance art. The painting employs chiaroscuro, contrasting deep shadows against illuminated flesh to model forms in three dimensions. The rich reds and yellows of the garments are rendered with layered glazes, creating depth and a subtle glow.

History & Provenance

After establishing himself in Rome in 1511, del Piombo continued to synthesize Venetian and Roman influences throughout his career. This 1547 piece eventually entered the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum, where it remains part of the institution’s holdings of Renaissance paintings, offering insight into the artist’s late style and cross‑regional synthesis.

Artist & collection

Artist

Sebastiano del Piombo

Sebastiano del Piombo (Italian:; c. 1485 – 21 June 1547) was an Italian painter of the High Renaissance and early Mannerist periods, famous as the only major artist of the period to combine the colouring of the Venetian…