Madonna of Humility
Artist
Caterino Veneziano
(Italian, active 1362–1382)
Dateabout 1380–1382
Mediumegg tempera and gold leaf on panel
Dimensions40.6 x 33.4 cm (16 x 13 1/8 in.)
ClassificationsPaintings
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1923.213
Label TextThe word “humility” stems from humus, the Latin word for earth. By showing Mary seated on the ground while nursing the infant Christ, the artist emphasized the Virgin’s humanity and simplicity. Saint Francis of Assisi emphasized the virtue of humility in the 1100s, and this subject matter was initially connected to his followers, with images like this one used for contemplation.ProvenanceEugene Bolton, London EnglandOn View
On view
