An artwork on Galleree from Minneapolis Institute of Art.
About the artwork
Virgin and Child in a Landscapec. 1492–98
Artist: possibly Master of the Madonna Grog; Artist: possibly Aert van den Bossche; Artist: formerly Master of the Embroidered Foliage
Madonna and Child. No signature or markings.
41 1/4 x 34 1/4 in. (104.78 x 87 cm) (panel)
53 1/2 x 34 3/16 in. (135.89 x 86.84 cm) (outer frame)
Oil on panel
Painting
Netherlands
15th-16th century
Gift of the Groves Foundation, by exchange, The Miscellaneous Works of Art Purchase Fund, The Paintings Acquisition Fund, The Painting Deaccession Fund, The Putnam Dana McMillan Fund and unrestricted fund balances
In the quiet sanctuary of a dimly lit church, a singular altarpiece stands as a testament to faith, echoing whispers of devotion. Crafted with care, it invites the faithful and the curious alike to pause and reflect. This artwork, radiant in its beauty, serves as more than just a visual feast; it's a sacred symbol steeped in religious significance.
As your eyes roam across the painting, you notice a walled garden prominently depicted at its center. This serene space carries a profound meaning, harking back to the poetic lines of the Bible’s Song of Songs. It conjures visions of purity and grace, often associated with the Virgin Mary, the beloved mother of Jesus Christ. The vibrant flowering plants nestled within this garden powerfully resonate with her qualities—a symbolism woven delicately throughout the piece.
Look closely, and you'll find blue irises blooming, their petals whispering tales of sorrow and compassion, while humble violets bloom modestly, serving as quiet reminders of Mary’s unassuming strength. The strawberry plant, lush and ripe, signifies righteousness—a rich offering within this sanctuary of faith.
At the gates of this divine garden, a peacock unfurls its splendid feathers, a creature often connected with paradise, a reminder of the beauty and tranquility of the divine. Nearby, stags roam gracefully, representing the human soul, a poignant reminder of piety etched into the fabric of this artwork.
Delve deeper into the story of the artist, identified as the Master of the Embroidered Foliage. His name graces the canvas, but recent scholarship suggests that this title may refer to a collective—a group of talented artists who shared a vision and style. They intricately wove their distinct patterns of richly detailed leaves into several similar panel paintings, evoking a unique aesthetic that would captivate audiences long past their time.
In this peaceful narrative, each brushstroke stands as a testament to devotion, the weaving of symbols giving life to the spiritual journey of humanity. It beckons us to step into the painted garden, inviting us to pause, reflect, and connect with something greater than ourselves.
About the artist
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