Virgin and Child
Andrea della Robbia Italian
Andrea della Robbia was the nephew and disciple of Luca della Robbia, who developed the brilliant blue and white glazed terracotta sculptures that are identified with the Renaissance in Florence. Among Andrea’s earliest iconic creations, this work shows the Virgin Mary tenderly supporting the Christ Child, who solemnly raises his hand in blessing. Modeled in high relief with palpable naturalism, the lifesize figures seem to share our physical space while God the Father and a host of angels look on from heaven.
Philanthropists and collectors Edith and Herbert Lehman displayed the Madonna and Child in the entryway of their New York apartment. The sculpture, now popularly known as the Lehman Madonna, is shown near the entrance to the Museum to commemorate their memory.
This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.
