Madonna and Child 1798

William Sharp’s 1798 engraving, "Madonna and Child," depicts the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus. This print is a reproduction of an earlier painting, likely by an Italian Renaissance artist. Sharp’s etching technique is evident in the detailed lines that create a sense of depth and texture in the figures’ clothing and the background. The composition is classic, with Mary and Jesus positioned in an oval frame, a typical feature of Renaissance art. The inscription below the image reflects the themes of Christian faith and devotion common in religious artwork of this era. This print, now part of the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Madonna and Child motif in Western art.