Virgin and Child
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.
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
- Title: Virgin and Child
- 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
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.