Madonna and Child
c. 1480-1500
About this artwork
The painting depicts the Virgin Mary, crowned with a gold halo inscribed with "Ave Maria," looking down contemplatively at an open book. Beside her, the Christ Child, also with a faint halo, sits holding a rosary and points towards a pear and the book.
Did you know?
The detailed Latin inscription "AVE MARIA GRATIA PLENA DOMINUS TECUM" encircling Mary's halo serves as a direct address from the Angel Gabriel, underscoring her divine election. The pear clutched by the Christ Child is a common symbol in Renaissance art, often representing the sweetness of salvation or Christ's love for humanity, while the rosary signifies piety and prayer.
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Madonna and Child
Ambrogio Bergognone, c. 1480-1500
