Anna van Bergen (1492–1541) and Her Son Hendrik (born 1519) as the Virgin and Child

Jan Gossart (called Mabuse)

Created:
Movement:
1527
Renaissance
key Notes:
Renaissance Portraiture, Maternal Iconography
Share:
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
Dimensions:
Overall 17 7/8 x 13 5/8 in. (45.4 x 34.6 cm); painted surface 17 1/4 x 13 in. (43.8 x 33 cm)
medium:
Oil on wood
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Anna van Bergen (1492–1541) and Her Son Hendrik (born 1519) as the Virgin and Child" is a painting attributed to Jan Gossart, also known as Mabuse. The exact date of its creation is unknown, but it is believed to have been painted in the early 16th century. The work depicts Anna van Bergen, a prominent figure in the artist's life, alongside her son, Hendrik, portrayed in the guise of the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child. This painting reflects the Northern Renaissance's blending of religious themes with personal portraiture. Gossart's style is characterized by meticulous detail and rich color, showcasing his skill in rendering fabric and texture. The painting is significant for its intimate portrayal of maternal affection within a religious context. The work is housed in a private collection, and its provenance is not extensively documented. Further research may provide additional insights into its history and significance.

Description of the work:

"Anna van Bergen (1492–1541) and Her Son Hendrik (born 1519) as the Virgin and Child" is a painting by Jan Gossart, also known as Mabuse. The work features Anna van Bergen depicted as the Virgin Mary, holding her son Hendrik, who is represented as the Christ Child. The figures are rendered with meticulous attention to detail, showcasing Gossart's skill in oil painting on wood. Anna is adorned in rich, contemporary clothing, which contrasts with the traditional iconography of the Virgin. The background is composed of a serene landscape, enhancing the intimate connection between mother and child. The use of light and shadow creates a three-dimensional effect, emphasizing the figures' forms. The expressions of both figures convey a sense of tenderness and maternal affection. The composition is balanced, with Anna's figure slightly larger than that of Hendrik, drawing the viewer's focus to their relationship. The painting exemplifies Gossart's blend of Northern Renaissance and Italian influences, evident in the naturalism and emotional depth of the subjects.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

Could this content be improved?

Please let us know and we will be happy to correct it. We have put a ton of effort into collating and organizing all of this.
We may follow up with questions.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Anna van Bergen (1492–1541) and Her Son Hendrik (born 1519) as the Virgin and Child