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Madonna and Child with Scroll

ca. 1455
Not on view
Della Robbia sculptures decorate the exteriors of many buildings throughout Tuscany. This monumental work was probably installed high over a door. Seated within Mary’s protective embrace, the Christ Child raises his hand in blessing and offers a message of salvation, "Ego sum lux mundi," meaning "I am the light of the world." This statement comes from a biblical passage, John 8:12, which continues: "Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life."

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Madonna and Child with Scroll
  • Artist: Luca della Robbia (Italian, 1399/1400–1482 Florence)
  • Date: ca. 1455
  • Culture: Italian, Florence
  • Medium: Glazed terracotta
  • Dimensions: 31 1/4 in., 93 lb. (79.4 cm, 42.2 kg)
    42 3/4 × 28 1/8 in. (108.6 × 71.4 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Bequest of Benjamin Altman, 1913
  • Object Number: 14.40.685
  • Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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5063. Madonna and Child with Scroll

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