Virgin and Child (Primary Title)
Unknown (Artist)
Crowned as queen of Heaven, Virgin Mary lovingly holds Jesus in this bronze representation. Earlier medieval depictions of the Virgin and Child portrayed an emotionless relationship, with each representing symbolic ideals rather than human natures. However, by the later Middle Ages, the loving relationship between mother and son became much more pronounced. The realistic child, shown completely naked, emphasizes the human nature of God Incarnate, and the intimate interaction between the two provides for the viewer a greater understanding of the love of God.
Adolph D. and Wilkins C. Williams Fund
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
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