Madonna and Child on a throne (Front side fragment) 1311

This fragment of "Madonna and Child on a throne" was created by Duccio, likely in the early 14th century, using tempera and gold leaf on wood. The smooth, delicate rendering of Mary's face is achieved through the meticulous application of tempera paint, a technique demanding great skill. But it's the gold leaf that really catches the eye. Applied painstakingly to create the halo and embellishments on her clothing, it speaks volumes about the work involved. Consider the labor required to mine, process, and apply this precious material. Gold was not just a symbol of divinity, but also of wealth and power, reflecting the Church's economic status and influence. The application of gold leaf, and tempera demanded not only artistic talent, but also specialized knowledge and skilled craftsmanship. Looking closely at the work involved in crafting this piece challenges our conventional view of the artist as purely a creative genius, highlighting the role of skilled labor and materiality in the production of art.