“Madonna” by Duccio, A Religious figure

“Madonna” by Duccio (“Virgin and Child Enthroned, Surrounded by Angels (known as the Rucellai Madonna”). This piece of art is a thematic mosaic depicting Virgin Mary, Christ Child, and several angels that were present at Christ Child’s birth. Virgin Mary was represented and praised as the embodiment of purity. In the 13th century, people admired religious figures and showed their veneration through various means. For instance, they perceived Virgin Mary as one of the most sacred examples of morality. Also, they appreciated Virgin Mary’s beauty.

Concept of Female Sexuality

Christ Child was conceived without Virgin Mary engaging in a sexual intercourse. As a result, Virgin Mary was recognized for her piousness and purity. The period during which the Mosaic was created, the Italian society reflected extreme strictness in regards to the concept of female sexuality. Women were allowed to maintain platonic relationships with men. However, they were forbidden from having sexual relations outside of wedlock. The Mosaic is a significant piece as it subverts the conventional societal notion of a woman who gives birth without being married.

Tempera on Woods Technique

With regards to Virgin Mary’s marriage, it is said that she was supposed to marry Joseph. However, Joseph did not keep his promise and Virgin Mary’s pregnancy was interpreted from different moral angles. The Mosaic was created after a biblical scene wherein Virgin Mary and Christ Child are surrounded by angels. Its technique involves tempera on wood. There is a distinct gold background allowing the characters to stand out. Originally, it was created to be placed at the Church of Santa Maria, Novella, in Florence. Due to its fragile state, it is kept in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. It is one of the biggest pieces of art made in the 13th century.

Reference

“Virgin and Child Enthroned, Surrounded by Angels (Known as the Rucellai Madonna).” Artworks | Uffizi Galleries, www.uffizi.it/en/artworks/virgin-and-child-enthroned-surrounded-by-angels-known-as-the-rucellai-madonna#&gid=1&pid=1.