Madonna of the Rosary 1539

Lorenzo Lotto’s “Madonna of the Rosary” (1539) is a complex and visually striking altarpiece that depicts the Virgin Mary, surrounded by angels, holding the Christ Child. The painting is divided into two sections, with the upper portion featuring a series of 15 circular panels depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and the life of Christ, arranged like a flowering tree. The lower section portrays figures from a local confraternity kneeling in prayer, with an inscription that names the confraternity’s members. This Italian Renaissance work is a testament to Lotto’s mastery of detail and color, showcasing the artist's ability to convey both devotion and visual dynamism.