Madonna and Child Enthroned with Two Cherubim

Osservanza Master

Created:
Movement:
1440
Renaissance
key Notes:
Gothic elegance, Divine serenity
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Dimensions:
Overall: 56 1/2 × 27 3/8 in. (143.5 × 69.5 cm)
medium:
Tempera on wood, gold ground
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Madonna and Child Enthroned with Two Cherubim" is a painting attributed to the Osservanza Master, an anonymous artist active in the early 15th century. The work is dated between 1435 and 1440 and is characterized by its use of vibrant colors and intricate details. The composition features the Virgin Mary seated on a throne, holding the infant Jesus, flanked by two cherubim. This piece reflects the influence of the International Gothic style, emphasizing elegance and decorative elements. The identity of the Osservanza Master remains unknown, and the artist is primarily recognized through this and a few other works. The painting is significant for its representation of religious themes and its contribution to the development of Renaissance art in Italy. It is currently housed in a museum collection, although the specific location may vary.

Description of the work:

"Madonna and Child Enthroned with Two Cherubim" by the Osservanza Master is a tempera on wood painting created between 1435 and 1440. The composition features the Virgin Mary seated on a throne, holding the Christ Child in her lap. Mary is depicted in a richly adorned robe, characterized by intricate patterns and vibrant colors. The Child is shown in a naturalistic pose, reaching out towards the viewer. Flanking the throne are two cherubim, rendered with delicate features and soft, rounded forms. The background is a gold ground, enhancing the ethereal quality of the scene and emphasizing the divine nature of the figures. The use of gold leaf contributes to the luminosity of the painting, creating a striking contrast with the colors of the figures. The overall arrangement conveys a sense of stability and reverence, typical of the period's religious iconography.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Madonna and Child Enthroned with Two Cherubim