Artwork preview

The Madonna and Child in Glory Adored by Saints

Giovanni Battista Paggi

National Gallery of Art

The image shows several figures, each displayed in full from head to toe. In the top portion, a seated figure, likely a woman, gazes downward, holding a child on her lap. Her facial features are subtle, and her hair appears styled or covered, potentially with a veil. Her clothing is flowing, hinting at a gown or robe with visible fabric texture. Below her, four other figures are positioned in a circular formation, each in an animated pose. Their faces show expression, and they seem to have short hair or head coverings. The central lower figure holds a shield with the inscription "QUIS UT DEUS." The background includes a sky filled with clouds and rays, contributing to a sense of elevation or divinity. Varying shades of sketched clouds in the background suggest depth and create an ethereal setting.

Artwork Details

Date
before 1613
Medium
pen and brown ink over black chalk, on buff laid paper, laid down on pale green paper
Dimensions
3422 × 4938 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
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