Scene
The Virgin Mary is seated on an elaborate throne, holding the Christ Child. They are surrounded by saints and angels in a composition known as a Maestà . The architectural elements of the throne appear to recede into space.
Ognissanti Madonna
Giotto
1310
Figures
The central figures are the enthroned Virgin Mary and the Christ Child. They are accompanied by saints and angels who are partially framed by architectural elements. The gazes of all figures are aligned toward the center.
Symbolism
Angels hold vases of roses and lilies, which symbolize purity and charity. A crown and a pyx held by other angels reference the Passion of Christ. The Virgin's throne with its pointed tabernacle evokes Gothic architecture.
Craft
The artist used chiaroscuro, the modulation of light and shadow, to create the illusion of three-dimensional form. This technique gives volume to the figures and renders fabric folds realistically.
Impact
This work is celebrated as the first painting of the Italian Renaissance. It broke with medieval traditions to establish a new visual language based on observation and mathematical perspective.
1 / 5
Tags
Craft
