Explore the Description of this artwork.
The work is in egg tempera and gold leaf on wood with dimensions of 96 cm (37.7 in) × 70 cm (27.5 in). The painting was finished in the early part of the 15th century. The prototype was used during the Byzantine period. Both Greek and Italian artists followed the style. The Virgin is leaning to the left as she embraces the infant. Her face and neck are elongated. She has a unique headdress under her cloak. There are three stars on her robe. The three stars are taken from traditional Greek Byzantine and Italian prototypes. The robe is also elaborately decorated around the infant's legs. His robe features detailed striations clearly defining the space. Her fingers are long; her right hand holds the Christ Child. Her elaborately decorated shirt cuff appears on her right arm. Her lips are a rose color. Her eyes give a serious glance to the viewer. Her chin embraces the young infant in the Eleousa position.The infant faces his mother. His lips are the same color as hers. His head is tilted back slightly as his mother caresses the holy infant. His hair is brown. The infant wears an orange robe and a white baby shirt with decorations. His orange robe features elaborately painted striations allowing viewers to establish the grooves and ridges. In his hands he holds a scroll, which represents the New Testament. The gilded background allows viewers to connect with the Virgin and Child. The gold symbolizes opulence and power.
Eleousa tempera Christ Child