Created:
Movement:
1467
Renaissance
key Notes:
Renaissance architecture, Domestic interior
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Dimensions:
57 x 37 7/8 in. (144.8 x 96.2 cm)
medium:
Tempera and oil on wood
story of the work:

"The Birth of the Virgin" is a painting by the Italian Renaissance artist Fra Carnevale, also known as Bartolomeo di Giovanni Corradini, created in 1467. The work is notable for its depiction of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, a subject that was popular in Renaissance art. The composition features a serene and balanced arrangement, showcasing Fra Carnevale's mastery of perspective and architectural elements. The painting is characterized by its use of vibrant colors and intricate details, particularly in the depiction of the figures and the setting. The artist's style reflects the influence of both the early Renaissance and the emerging High Renaissance. The work is currently housed in the collection of the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo in Pisa, Italy. Further details about the painting's provenance or its reception during Fra Carnevale's lifetime remain unknown.

Description of the work:

"The Birth of the Virgin" by Fra Carnevale, created in 1467, is a tempera and oil on wood painting that depicts the nativity of the Virgin Mary. The composition features a serene interior space, characterized by a harmonious arrangement of figures and architectural elements. Central to the scene is the figure of Saint Anne, reclining in bed, surrounded by midwives and attendants who assist in the birth. The use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth, while the meticulous detailing of fabrics and textures showcases Carnevale's skill in rendering materials. The color palette is rich yet subdued, with soft blues, reds, and earth tones that enhance the overall tranquility of the moment. Architectural elements, including columns and arches, frame the scene, contributing to the sense of perspective and spatial organization. The figures are rendered with a naturalistic approach, displaying a range of emotions that reflect the significance of the event. The painting exemplifies the early Renaissance style, merging religious narrative with a focus on human experience and emotion.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Birth of the Virgin