Virgin and Child Enthroned with Saints Catherine and Jerome

Unknown

Created:
Movement:
1469
Renaissance
key Notes:
Renaissance Devotional Imagery, Hieratic Composition
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Dimensions:
20 3/8 x 13 3/4 in. (51.8 x 34.9 cm)
medium:
Tempera, oil, and gold on wood
Difficulty:
Expert
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story of the work:

"Virgin and Child Enthroned with Saints Catherine and Jerome" is a painting attributed to a Spanish painter, though the specific artist remains unknown. The work depicts the Virgin Mary seated on a throne, holding the Christ Child, flanked by Saints Catherine of Alexandria and Jerome. The composition reflects the influence of both Gothic and early Renaissance styles, characterized by its verticality and the use of gold leaf. The painting likely served a devotional purpose, intended for private worship or as an altarpiece. The date of creation is also unknown, but it is believed to have been produced during the late 15th or early 16th century. The painting is notable for its intricate details and the expressive faces of the figures, which convey a sense of spiritual reverence. Its current location is not specified in available records.

Description of the work:

"Virgin and Child Enthroned with Saints Catherine and Jerome" is a painting that features the Virgin Mary seated on a throne, holding the infant Christ. The figures of Saints Catherine and Jerome are positioned on either side of the Virgin, each depicted with distinct attributes that identify them. The composition is characterized by a symmetrical arrangement, emphasizing the centrality of the Virgin and Child. The use of tempera, oil, and gold on wood creates a rich texture and luminosity, enhancing the sacred nature of the scene. The background is often adorned with gold leaf, contributing to the overall sense of divine light. The figures are rendered with a combination of naturalism and stylization, showcasing the artist's skill in drapery and facial expressions. The color palette is vibrant, with deep reds, blues, and golds that draw the viewer's eye to the central figures. The painting reflects the influence of both Gothic and early Renaissance styles, evident in the detailed ornamentation and the hierarchical scale of the figures. The work exemplifies the devotional art of its time, inviting contemplation of the holy figures depicted.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Virgin and Child Enthroned with Saints Catherine and Jerome