Madonna and Child with Saints and Angels c. 1345

Bernardo Daddi created this ‘Madonna and Child with Saints and Angels’ using tempera and gold leaf on wood. Your eye is drawn to the composition’s hierarchical structure. Observe how the Madonna and Child are centrally positioned, enthroned above a gathering of saints and angels. This arrangement isn't just about aesthetics; it reflects a medieval worldview, using spatial relationships to denote importance and divine order. Notice also the gold leaf, particularly in the halos, backgrounds and architectural frame, functioning as a signifier of holiness and transcendence. How does Daddi use color? The contrasting blues, reds, and golds create a visual harmony, but also serve as symbolic cues. Blue for the Virgin's mantle, signifies purity and royalty, while gold represents divine light and eternal truth. Consider how the texture of the paint application adds depth and richness to the surface. These material choices are integral to the artwork's meaning, reinforcing the cultural values and spiritual beliefs of the time. Art is never just a reflection of its era, but an active participant in shaping its viewers understanding of the world.