Madonna and Child with the Young Saint John the Baptist

Fra Bartolomeo (Bartolomeo di Paolo del Fattorino)

Created:
Movement:
1502
High Renaissance
key Notes:
Renaissance harmony, Devotional intimacy
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Dimensions:
23 x 17 1/4 in. (58.4 x 43.8 cm)
medium:
Oil and gold on wood
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

"Madonna and Child with the Young Saint John the Baptist" is a painting by the Italian Renaissance artist Fra Bartolomeo, created around 1497. The work depicts the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child, accompanied by the young Saint John the Baptist. This composition reflects the artist's interest in the harmonious arrangement of figures and the use of chiaroscuro to create depth. Fra Bartolomeo was influenced by the works of Leonardo da Vinci and the broader Florentine artistic tradition. The painting is characterized by its serene expressions and the gentle interaction between the figures. The exact provenance of the painting is not well-documented, and its current location is unknown. The work exemplifies Fra Bartolomeo's commitment to religious themes and his skill in rendering human emotion.

Description of the work:

"Madonna and Child with the Young Saint John the Baptist" by Fra Bartolomeo is an oil and gold on wood painting created around 1497. The composition features the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child, who is depicted in a tender pose. The young Saint John the Baptist stands beside them, pointing towards Christ, emphasizing his role as the forerunner. The figures are rendered with a soft, luminous quality, characteristic of Fra Bartolomeo's style. The use of gold in the background enhances the sacred atmosphere of the scene. The drapery of the figures is meticulously detailed, showcasing a rich palette of colors. The overall arrangement conveys a sense of harmony and balance, typical of Renaissance art. The painting reflects the artist's interest in the human form and emotional expression.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Madonna and Child with the Young Saint John the Baptist