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Madonna and Child with Saints Andrew, Benedict, Bernard, and Catherine of Alexandria with Angels [entire triptych] by Gaddi, Agnolo

Gaddi, Agnolo · shortly before 1387

This beautiful devotional painting, "Madonna and Child with Saints Andrew, Benedict, Bernard, and Catherine of Alexandria with Angels" by Agnolo Gaddi, was created just before 1387. It is currently held in a private collection.

Notice the vibrant colors of the Madonna's robe and the serene faces of the figures. The small, kneeling angels at the base add a touch of delicate, spiritual grace.

Gaddi used tempera paint on poplar wood panels, a common technique in the late medieval period. The elaborate gold frame, with its intricate details, highlights the preciousness of the artwork and the skill of the artisan.

This triptych is a lovely example of late 14th-century Italian religious art. What details catch your eye?

Details

It was painted by Agnolo Gaddi, just before 1387.
It was painted by Agnolo Gaddi, just before 1387.
These kneeling angels add celestial grace to the scene.
These kneeling angels add celestial grace to the scene.
His weathered face and stoic posture convey a sense of steadfast faith.
His weathered face and stoic posture convey a sense of steadfast faith.
Transcript

This devotional scene, almost 700 years old, depicts Mary with child. It was painted by Agnolo Gaddi, just before 1387. The painter used vibrant tempera on poplar wood panels. These kneeling angels add celestial grace to the scene. Look closely at the detailed gold frame. It shows the artisan's intricate skill, still shining today.