Mary with the Child

Hans Holbein the Elder created this image of the Virgin and Child around 1499, near the end of the fifteenth century when Augsburg was emerging as a major artistic center. Holbein's late works show an increasing warmth and naturalism that anticipate the Renaissance developments his sons would fully embrace. The painting reflects the devotional culture of Augsburg's wealthy merchant and clerical patrons. This work belongs to the High Renaissance, when the innovations of the preceding century were synthesized into works of monumental clarity and ideal beauty.

Oil on panel with the soft modeling and warm tonality characteristic of Holbein the Elder's mature period. The intimate scale and tender characterization suggest a work for private devotion.