The artwork titled “Virgin and Child,” executed by the artist Parmigianino between the years 1525 and 1527, is an oil on panel painting that falls within the Mannerism (Late Renaissance) art movement. This religious painting is currently housed at the Courtauld Institute of Art in London, UK.
The artwork depicts the Virgin Mary tenderly engaging with the Child Jesus. The composition is characterized by elongated forms and an elegant, somewhat ethereal use of color and light, typical of the Mannerist style. The Virgin is portrayed in a seated position, her delicate features and serene expression emphasizing her grace and maternal affection. The Child, posed in a naturalistic and relaxed manner, reaches out towards the Virgin, creating a sense of intimate connection between the figures. The background features architectural elements and a twilight sky, adding depth and a sense of enclosure, while the drapery enhances the scene’s dynamic interplay of light and shadow. Parmigianino’s masterful technique and distinctive stylistic choices are evident in the delicate rendering of details and the fluidity of the forms.
