The Virgin in Prayer c. 1520 - 1530

"The Virgin in Prayer" is an oil on panel painting by Joos van Cleve, a prominent Flemish artist of the 16th century. Created around 1520-1530, the work portrays the Virgin Mary in a moment of intense devotion, her hands clasped in prayer and her head bowed in humility. The painting's intimate scale and realistic portrayal of Mary's features imbue the work with a sense of serenity and piety, reflecting the religious devotion common during the Renaissance. The artwork's rich color palette and meticulous attention to detail are hallmarks of Van Cleve's style, and contribute to the painting's enduring appeal.