Virgin and Child with an Angel

The Virgin and Child with an Angel is an exquisite tempera on panel painting created by the celebrated Florentine master, Sandro Botticelli, between 1475 and 1485. This period marks the height of the early Italian Renaissance, where Botticelli established himself as a leading interpreter of devotional iconography. Executed in the challenging medium of tempera, the work showcases the artist's highly refined technique, characterized by precise line work and luminous color application typical of the quattrocento workshop tradition in Italy.

The composition centers on the intimate interaction between the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child. The figures are rendered with Botticelli's characteristic sense of melancholic grace and elongated elegance, imparting a psychological depth that elevates his religious works above simple representation. A youthful angel is included in the scene, likely presenting a gesture or object relevant to the sacred narrative. The delicate handling of drapery and the serene facial features are hallmarks of Botticelli's mature style, distinguishing the artist’s work within the wider sphere of Renaissance painting.

This significant Renaissance piece is a key example of the private devotional works produced for wealthy patrons in 15th-century Florence. Botticelli’s masterful execution and sensitive treatment of subject matter confirm his standing as one of the most important painters of the era. The work is permanently housed in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, where it serves as a crucial document of the evolution of painting in Renaissance Italy. Due to its historical importance, high-quality prints and reproductions of this iconic masterpiece are often made available through public domain collections, ensuring its enduring scholarly accessibility.