“The Virgin of Humility” is an exquisite religious painting created by Fra Angelico in 1445. Executed on panel using tempera, the artwork is a prominent piece of the Early Renaissance art movement. Measuring 99 x 49 cm, it is housed in the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid, Spain.
The artwork depicts the Virgin Mary seated modestly with the Christ Child in her lap. The background is adorned with an intricate gold-leaf design, characteristic of Fra Angelico’s transcendental style and symbolic use of light. Mary is depicted wearing a deep blue robe with a green and gold trim, symbolizing her purity and celestial nature. Surrounding her, angels play musical instruments and engage in acts of worship, enhancing the spiritual ambiance of the painting. The Virgin’s serene expression and the tender gesture of the Child suggest a theme of humility and divine grace, exemplifying the pious ideals of the Early Renaissance period.