Virgin and Child
by PINTURICCHIO, Tempera on panel, 42 x 39 cm
Despite his considerable activity as a painter of large-scale altarpieces and frescoed decorative cycles, Pinturicchio also painted a number of smaller devotional works, of which the present panel is a fine example. The Virgin holds the Infant Christ, who, in turn, holds out a goldfinch - a common symbol of his forthcoming Passion.
Suggested listening (streaming mp3, 9 minutes):
Josquin Desprez: Motet (Benedicta es coelorum Regina)