Description
The painting Madonna Enthroned with the Child and Two Angels by Cimabue is a masterpiece of Italian medieval art. This oil on panel painting measures 218 x 118 cm and was created around the year 1280. The work depicts the Virgin Mary seated on a throne with the Child Jesus on her lap, flanked by two angels.
Cimabue's artistic style is very evident in this painting. He was one of the first Italian artists to abandon the Byzantine style and begin to explore perspective and depth in his works. In this painting, Cimabue uses the gilding technique, typical of Byzantine art, but also incorporates realistic details in the clothing and faces of the characters.
The composition of the work is impressive. The figure of the Virgin Mary is the focal point of the painting, but the angels at her side also have a large presence. Cimabue uses symmetry in the composition to create a visual balance. The figure of the Virgin Mary is in the center of the painting and angels are placed on either side of her.
The use of color in painting is also very interesting. Cimabue uses bright, saturated colors to create a feeling of richness and opulence. Gold and blue colors are especially prominent in the work, reflecting the importance of the Virgin Mary and her role as Queen of Heaven.
The history of the painting is also fascinating. The work was commissioned by the church of Santa Trinita in Florence and was kept there for many years. In the 18th century, the painting was transferred to the church of Santa Maria Novella, where it remains to this day.
Although the painting is well known, there are some little-known aspects about it. For example, Cimabue is believed to have worked on the painting together with his student, Giotto. The painting is also known to have suffered damage over the years, including a fire in the church of Santa Trinita in 1304.
In short, the painting Madonna Enthroned with the Child and Two Angels is a masterpiece of Italian medieval art. The artistic style, composition, color and history of the painting are all fascinating aspects that make this work one of the most important in medieval art.