Virgin and Child c. 1465 - 1470

This circular, low-relief carving of the Virgin and Child, made by Antonio Rizzo around 1470-1490, immediately draws us in with its intimate portrayal rendered in marble. The composition, encased within a decorative ring, features the Virgin Mary tenderly holding the Christ Child, with cherubic figures subtly placed in the background. Rizzo's formal choices serve to emphasize the emotional and spiritual connection between mother and child. Note how the delicate carving of the drapery creates a sense of movement and softness, contrasting with the solid forms of the figures. The circular format adds to the feeling of unity and wholeness, underscoring the divine nature of the scene. Consider also the strategic use of depth. The shallow relief pushes the figures forward, creating a sense of immediacy that invites contemplation. This artwork invites us to reflect on the formal elements that underpin its profound emotional and spiritual resonance.