“The Madonna of the Roses,” created by William-Adolphe Bouguereau in 1903, is an oil painting on canvas that measures 90.5 by 130 cm. This work, which falls under the Academicism art movement, is categorized as a religious painting.
The artwork depicts the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus. Mary, adorned in a white veil, exudes a serene, maternal grace while the Christ Child looks outward with innocence and simplicity. Both figures have halos that emphasize their sanctity, and they are surrounded by lush roses, which contribute to the painting’s title and further symbolize purity and divinity. The background features an arch and ornate decorations that lend a sacred, almost celestial ambiance to the composition. Bouguereau’s exquisite detail and masterful use of light highlight the tender bond between mother and child, creating an image that is both intimate and reverent.