The Virgin and Child Appearing to Saint Martina

Probably Cosimo Fancelli, after Pietro da Cortona

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts a scene with three human figures and two cherubic faces. The main subject is a child held on the lap of a seated woman, possibly being presented to another kneeling woman. Above them, two cherubic faces emerge from swirling clouds. The background features architectural elements such as a column and a pediment. The scene is rendered in a golden hue. The figures are in high relief against a flat background, offering depth and texture while remaining in alignment with the two-dimensional plane of the sculpture. Drapery, clouds, and architectural elements are intricately detailed.