Virgin and Child in the Clouds

Hans Baldung Grien

National Gallery of Art

The image displays the upper half of a woman and a child, both partially surrounded by clouds. The woman faces slightly to the left, looking down at the child she holds in her arms. She has a serene expression with soft eyes and full lips, and her long, wavy hair falls over her shoulders. She wears a large, ornate crown with visible stars. The child, with curly hair, leans against the woman's chest. Both are dressed in flowing garments. To the left is a shield with symbols and a decorative frame. The background features detailed cloud patterns.