Virgin and Child in a Church

Albrecht Altdorfer

National Gallery of Art

The image depicts a woman and a child. The woman is standing, holding the child in her arms. Her facial features are delicate, with a serene expression. Her hair is mostly covered by a headdress or elaborate covering, extending over her shoulders. The child has curly hair and is positioned against the woman's body, both surrounded by halos. The woman wears a flowing garment with intricate details and a decorative element on her chest. In her hand, she holds a small cross. The child clutches her shoulder. The scene is set in a structure resembling a church or cathedral with tall arches and windows allowing light to illuminate the figures. The background includes stone pillars and a patterned floor.