Description
The painting Madonna with the Child Reading by the artist Jan Van Eyck is a work that stands out for its artistic style, its composition and its color. This work, which has an original size of 26.5 x 19.5 cm, is one of the artist's most interesting.
As for the artistic style, the painting is part of the Flemish Renaissance, characterized by precision in detail and the use of the oil technique. In this sense, Van Eyck is considered one of the greatest exponents of this artistic trend.
The composition of the work is another of its most interesting aspects. It represents the Virgin Mary holding the Child Jesus on her lap, while he reads a book. The figure of the Virgin is located in the center of the composition, surrounded by a natural landscape and architecture that shows the artist's ability to represent perspective.
As for the color, the painting stands out for its chromatic richness. Van Eyck used a wide range of tones, ranging from the blues and greens of the landscape to the golds and reds of the vestments of the Virgin and Child. In addition, the artist managed to create a feeling of depth thanks to the chiaroscuro technique.
The history of the painting is also interesting. It is believed that it was made around 1435, and that it was part of a series of works commissioned by the Duke of Burgundy, Philip the Good. The painting has undergone various restorations and has passed through different private collections and museums, until it reached its current location in the Prado Museum in Madrid.
Finally, one of the least known aspects of the work is its symbolism. The figure of the Child Jesus reading a book is interpreted as a prefiguration of his role as teacher and savior of humanity. Also, the book he is holding in his hands has been identified as Holy Scripture, which reinforces this idea.