Madonna of Humility
Artistattributed to
Zanobi di Benedetto Strozzi
(Italian, 1412–1468)
Date1400s
Mediumtempera on panel
Dimensionspanel: 66 x 44.1 cm (26 x 17 3/8 in.)
ClassificationsPaintings
Credit LineTheodore T. and Mary G. Ellis Collection
Object number1940.40
Label TextThis painting was recently attributed to Zanobi Strozzi, although it was previously thought to have been by the hand of his teacher Fra Angelico with whom he collaborated on many panel paintings and frescoes between 1433 and 1445. This painting may have been one of several paintings ascribed by Vasari to Strozzi in his book Life of Fra Angelico. It appears to have been one of five in a series of paintings depicting the Madonna of Humility, all thought to have been done by Strozzi.
This treatment of the Madonna of Humility theme may be compared to other versions in the collection. The artist has continued the use of the flower garden or meadow chosen also by artists Catarino and Stefano da Verona. He employs a certain amount of decorative patterning and elegance characteristic of the Gothic tradition, yet gives his figures more naturalism and weight. This combination reflects his knowledge of the new currents in Florentine painting in the second quarter of the new century.
ProvenanceTheodore T. Ellis, Worcester MAOn View
On viewCollections
