Circle of Sandro Botticelli

(Florence 1445–1510)
Madonna and Child,
oil on panel, 62 x 46 cm, unframed
The present composition relates to Botticelli’s Madonna and Child with John the Baptist and two Angels, painted in 1468 and conserved in the Galleria dell’Accademia, Florence (inv. 1890 no. 3166). Botticelli often portrayed the humanity of the Madonna and Child. The present painting closely follows such manner of representation. Although the two figures are placed in an architectural setting the viewer is here allowed to have a glimpse of the affectionate relationship between mother and child.

Also derived from Botticelli is the pursue of linear clarity in constructing both the figures and the setting which in this case is counterbalanced by strong chiaroscuro in defining the volume of the figures. The small dimensions of the present panel suggest the present work was intended for private devotion.
Specialist: Mark MacDonnell