Description
The painting Virgin and Child with St Michael by the artist Rutilio Manetti is a work of art that stands out for its baroque style and its dynamic composition. The piece, which measures 101 x 77 cm, presents the Virgin Mary holding the baby Jesus on her lap, while Saint Michael the Archangel stands on her right side.
Manetti's artistic style is characterized by his ability to create dramatic and emotional effects through the use of light and shadow. In the work, the light seems to emanate from the figure of Jesus, illuminating the face of the Virgin and creating an effect of depth in the composition.
Color also plays an important role in painting. Manetti uses a palette of warm and vibrant tones to create a cosy, heavenly atmosphere. The red tunic of the Virgin contrasts with the intense blue of Saint Michael's cloak, while the white of the tunics of both characters symbolizes divine purity.
The history of the painting is interesting, as it was commissioned by the Medici family of Florence in the 17th century. The work was in the hands of the family until it was sold at auction in 1979. It is currently in the collection of the Art Gallery of Ontario in Canada.
A little known aspect of the painting is that Manetti included symbolic details in the composition. For example, the baby Jesus holds a bird in his hand, which represents the resurrection and eternal life. In addition, San Miguel holds a scale, symbolizing the final judgment in which the souls of the deceased are weighed.
In short, Virgin and Child with St Michael is a stunning work of art that combines Manetti's baroque style with a dynamic and emotional composition. The use of light, color and symbolic details make this painting a leading example of 17th century religious art.