“Madonna and Child in Half Length” is a religious painting by Albrecht Dürer, dating to around 1519. It is a product of the Northern Renaissance, a period of European art that was characterized by a detailed and realistic approach to painting and other art forms. The artwork is part of the collection located in Kunsthalle Bremen, Bremen, Germany.
The artwork features the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child. Mary is depicted with a calm and serene expression, her gaze slightly downcast, embodying an aura of maternal gentleness. She has a delicate, almost melancholic, beauty with meticulously drawn features. Her hair is partially covered with a headband and flows down her shoulders, adding texture to the artwork. The Child Jesus appears lively and is engaging directly with the viewer, or perhaps reaching out towards something out of our sight. His curly hair and chubby cheeks are rendered with care, indicating the artist’s attention to detail. The drawing is monochromatic, executed with fine lines and shading that create a sense of depth and volume. The radiance behind them, drawn with a series of lines, suggests their holy aura. Dürer’s skill in rendering forms and textures is evident, reflecting the masterful technique he was renowned for during the Northern Renaissance.
