The Virgin and Child with a Bird

Simone Cantarini

National Gallery of Art

The image is an etching showing the upper half of a woman seated, with a full view of a child lying across her lap. The woman is positioned in a gentle incline, with her head resting on her left hand, looking down at the child. Her facial features depict a serene expression, and her hair is covered with a cloth. She is clad in a flowing robe that drapes around her body and the child, creating a sense of continuity between them. Her right arm supports the infant, who is naked and appears to be reaching upwards. In the background, there is a curtain to the right, and above her head, the etching shows a circular aura. A bird is depicted in the upper left corner, seemingly tethered with a long line. The surrounding ambiance is minimal, with etched lines providing texture and depth.