Having gained entry into an elite group of Renaissance Masters
by exhibiting at the Uffizi Museum, this painting is certainly
an acclaim-worthy work of art. Painted by the famed Master of
Barberino, Madonna and Child, depicts the title figures flanked
by two apostles. What is truly eye-catching are the lush robes
draping the subjects. Made from ground lapis, the deep blue that
envelopes Mary is a singular, extraordinary pigment known as
“lapis lazuli”, sacred blue or sacré bleu. Taking its name from
its tremendous, almost sacred value, lapis lazuli was a costly
material equal in value to gold. Mined only in Afghanistan, the
stone had to cross a very long trade route. Transportation of
this pigment was a dangerous endeavor; the carriers of the
product were in constant fear of an attack by robbers. Being of
immense value, the painting studios who special ordered lapis
would use it sparingly. This piece, however, is virtually awash
in the luscious blue hue, a feat that could not have been
accomplished except by