Virgin and Child c. 1475 - 1480

Piermatteo d'Amelia rendered this "Virgin and Child" in tempera and oil on wood, capturing a tender yet formal scene. At its heart lies the iconic motif of the Madonna and Child, representing divine motherhood and the promise of salvation. Note the Christ Child's raised hand. This gesture, reminiscent of classical oratory, signals blessing and authority. It echoes across centuries, from Roman emperors depicted in statues to Byzantine icons. The infant Christ reclaims the gesture, infusing it with spiritual significance. This hand, a symbol deeply embedded in our collective memory, transcends mere representation; it stirs profound emotions and beliefs, linking us to a timeless narrative of faith and redemption. Observe how this symbol progresses through time. From ancient depictions of power to its adoption in Christian art, evolving and adapting, yet its core message remains resonant. The past echoes into the present.