Madonna and Child

German 16th Century

National Gallery of Art

The image depicts a woman standing with a child in her arms. She is shown in a frontal position, holding the child close to her, who is also facing forward. The woman has long, flowing hair cascading down her back, and both she and the child have crowns on their heads. The woman's facial features are illustrated, and her hair appears thick and wavy. She is adorned in a long gown with drapery lines. The gown has folds, adding to the elegance of her clothing. Surrounding her are rays emanating outward. The child in her arms also wears a tunic. Around them, there are three depictions of winged creatures with halo-like circles above their heads, positioned at the corners of the image. These creatures have human faces with serene expressions. The background consists of a simple, unadorned surface.