Madonna del Ceppo 1453

Filippo Lippi's "Madonna del Ceppo" (1453) is a monumental painting depicting the Virgin Mary seated on a throne, holding the Christ child. Flanking the Virgin are Saint John the Baptist and Saint Anthony, while in the foreground, three kneeling figures representing the benefactors of the painting, look up in adoration. The figures are rendered with a degree of naturalism and emotional expression, characteristic of Early Renaissance Florentine art. This artwork is significant for its portrayal of the Virgin as a majestic and compassionate figure, providing comfort to the devout. The painting is also notable for its rich use of color and its emphasis on detail, particularly in the drapery of the figures.