The artwork titled “Mary holding the Christ child,” created by Jean Fouquet in 1455, is a quintessential representation of the Northern Renaissance art movement, embodied within the genre of religious painting.
The artwork depicts the Virgin Mary tenderly cradling the infant Christ. Mary’s visage is serene and contemplative, her eyes cast downward with a gentle, maternal affection. She is adorned in a striking blue mantle that envelops her form, giving her an ethereal and sacred presence. The Christ child is nestled close to her, captured with an inquisitive expression, emphasizing the intimate bond between mother and child. The background is a warm, rich red, which contrasts beautifully with Mary’s blue robes, creating a vivid focal point. The entire scene is framed with intricate decorative elements—delicate floral motifs and heraldic shields—that enhance the overall composition, reflecting the characteristic detailing and symbolic depth of Northern Renaissance artistry.
