Virgin Mary and Child

Lorenzo di Giovanni di Nofri XV sec. d.C./ ultimo quarto

Audio description of the artwork

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The panel, with a semicircular upper part, contains a delicate Virgin Mary and Child within a frame decorated with a star motif enclosed in a double ring. Probably originally of a more elongated shape, as can be seen from the rough-cut and unfinished base, inconsistent with the refinement of the painting, the artwork is small in size and represents a “colmo da camera”, a type of object that was much in vogue in the 15th century, intended for private devotion in the bedchambers of noble houses.

Technical information

Author: Lorenzo di Giovanni di Nofri
Title: Virgin Mary and Child
Date: XV sec. d.C./ ultimo quarto
Material and technique: Tempera and gold on panel
Size: 71x42 cm
Location: Palazzo Pretorio Museum
First Floor

The workshop of Lorenzo di Giovanni di Nofri specialised in this type of production, drawing inspiration from the creations of major artists and disseminating them through images possessing great emotional impact. The iconographic traits of this master, known until the end of the last century as the Master of San Miniato owing to the series of artworks resembling the panel with the Virgin Mary and Saints in the Church of San Domenico in San Miniato, have revealed that the artist was first trained in the workshop of Neri di Bicci from 1465 to 1466. More refined shapes in the decoration, soft volumes and gentle physiognomies first drew him closer to Filippo Lippi and, from the 1980s onwards, to Andrea del Verrocchio and Francesco Botticini characterised by chiaroscuro accentuation and more defined body volumes. Verrocchio influences can also be recognised in this Virgin Mary who is standing with the child enveloping her in a melancholic embrace. The ornate, light clothes hang over the balustrade and create a particular depth of planes underscored by the flap of the cloak enclosing the mother's delicate protective gesture towards her son.