Madonna and Child with Saints and Angels

Lippo Memmi (Filippo di Memmo)

Created:
Movement:
1355
Gothic art
key Notes:
Gothic elegance, Hieratic composition
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Dimensions:
Overall, with shaped top and engaged (partially modern) frame, 26 1/4 x 13 in. (66.7 x 33 cm); painted surface 19 3/4 x 10 1/8 in. (50.2 x 25.7 cm); predella 1 1/2 x 10 in. (3.8 x 25.4 cm)
medium:
Tempera on wood, gold ground
story of the work:

"Madonna and Child with Saints and Angels" is a tempera on wood painting attributed to the Italian artist Lippo Memmi, also known as Filippo di Memmo, created around 1350. The work exemplifies the Gothic style prevalent in 14th-century Italy, characterized by its elongated figures and intricate detailing. The composition features the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child, surrounded by various saints and angels, which reflects the devotional nature of the period. Memmi was influenced by the Sienese school, particularly the works of Duccio and Simone Martini, evident in the use of gold leaf and the decorative elements. The painting is notable for its vibrant colors and the emotional expressions of the figures, contributing to the overall spiritual atmosphere. The exact provenance of the painting is unknown, but it is believed to have been created for a church or private patron. Today, it is housed in a museum collection, where it continues to be studied for its artistic significance and historical context.

Description of the work:

"Madonna and Child with Saints and Angels" by Lippo Memmi is a tempera on wood painting created around 1350. The composition features the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child at the center, surrounded by a group of saints and angels. The figures are rendered in a stylized manner, characterized by elongated forms and intricate details in their garments. The use of a gold ground enhances the luminosity of the figures and creates a sense of divine presence. The color palette is rich, with deep reds, blues, and golds, contributing to the overall opulence of the work. The saints are depicted with distinct attributes, identifying them within the context of Christian iconography. The arrangement of the figures creates a hierarchical structure, emphasizing the centrality of the Madonna and Child. The painting exemplifies the Gothic style, with its emphasis on verticality and decorative elements. The overall effect is one of reverence and spiritual significance, typical of religious art from this period.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Madonna and Child with Saints and Angels