Madonna with a Flower (Madonna Benois) 1478

"Madonna with a Flower" (also known as "Madonna Benois"), painted in 1478 by Leonardo da Vinci, depicts the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child, who is reaching for a flower she is holding. The intimate and tender portrayal of the Madonna and Child is characteristic of da Vinci's early style, showcasing his mastery of sfumato technique and a subtle play of light and shadow. This artwork, currently housed in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, is a revered piece of Renaissance art, renowned for its delicate details and emotional depth.