Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saints Peter and Paul and Angels
Lippo Vanni (Lippo Vanni di Giovanni)
"Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saints Peter and Paul and Angels" is a painting attributed to Lippo Vanni, an Italian painter active during the late 13th and early 14th centuries. The exact date of its creation is unknown, but it is believed to have been produced during Vanni's career in Siena. The work exemplifies the Sienese Gothic style, characterized by its elegant figures and intricate details. The composition features the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child seated on a throne, flanked by Saints Peter and Paul, along with angels. This arrangement reflects the hierarchical structure typical of religious iconography of the period. Vanni's use of color and light contributes to the ethereal quality of the figures. The painting is significant for its representation of the devotional practices of the time and the role of saints in intercessory prayer. The current location of the painting is unknown, and further details about its provenance remain undocumented.
"Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saints Peter and Paul and Angels" by Lippo Vanni features the Virgin Mary seated on a throne, holding the Christ Child in her lap. The figures of Saints Peter and Paul flank the enthroned Madonna, each depicted with distinct attributes that identify them. The composition is characterized by a gold ground, which enhances the luminosity of the figures and creates a sense of divine presence. The use of tempera on wood allows for fine detailing and vibrant colors, contributing to the overall richness of the work. The figures are rendered with a sense of volume and drapery, showcasing Vanni's skill in depicting human form and fabric. The arrangement of angels surrounding the central figures adds to the celestial atmosphere of the painting. The work exemplifies the stylistic elements of the late medieval period, emphasizing both reverence and beauty in its portrayal of sacred subjects.