Bust of the Virgin
Bartolomeo Coriolano
Description
Subject Matter:
This intimate portrait of the Virgin Mary notably omits the infant Christ and instead focuses upon her alone. The close looking demanded by the small scale of the print augments this emphasis, as does the series of concentric circular shapes created by the frame and halos that direct attention toward her face. Many a devout Christian in the period prayed to the Virgin as a protectress who would intercede on their behalf with Christ and God and appeal for mercy. As a reproducible and relatively inexpensive image, this small and skillfully-wrought print was thus designed to fulfill widespread devotional needs.
Physical Description:
This small print depicts a bust-length portrait of a woman within an oval frame. She turns slightly to her left and gazes downward. A bright halo encircles her head.
Usage Rights:
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