Madonna and Child

Style of Sandro Botticelli, date ?
tempera on panel, 71.5 x 55 cm

Museum of Fine Arts, Valletta

Botticelli was one of the foremost artists of the Florentine Renaissance, though some traces of the Gothic style can still be felt in this painting.

The new interest in the art and architecture of Ancient Rome explains the bold presence motifs, such as the scallop-niche and pilasters that frame the Virgin and Child.

Whereas delicate colouring and sweet expressions predominate, this is only achieved over a sure and firm underdrawing that was characteristic of Florentine art.