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Madonna and Child (The Lehman Madonna)

ca. 1470–75
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 521
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.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Madonna and Child (The Lehman Madonna)
  • Artist: Andrea della Robbia (Italian, 1435–1525)
  • Date: ca. 1470–75
  • Culture: Italian, Florence
  • Medium: Glazed terracotta
  • Dimensions: 37 3/8 x 21 5/8 in. (94.9 x 54.9 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Gift of Edith and Herbert Lehman Foundation Inc., 1969
  • Object Number: 69.113
  • Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

More Artwork

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Saint Michael the Archangel, Andrea della Robbia Italian, Glazed terracotta, Italian, Florence
Saint Michael the Archangel
Andrea della Robbia
ca. 1475
Pharmacy Jar, Tin-glazed earthenware, Italian
Pharmacy Jar
Italian
1400s
Madonna and Child in a niche, Luca della Robbia Italian, Glazed terracotta with gilt and painted details, Italian, Florence
Madonna and Child in a niche
Luca della Robbia
ca. 1460
Virgin Adoring the Christ Child, Andrea della Robbia Italian, Glazed terracotta, Italian, Florence
Virgin Adoring the Christ Child
Andrea della Robbia
ca. 1470
Cherub's head (one of a pair), Andrea della Robbia , and Workshop Italian, Glazed terracotta, Italian, Florence
On loan to The Met
Cherub's head (one of a pair)
Andrea della Robbia
ca. 1500

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