Virgin and child

This classic mannerist painting is done by Pietro Buonaccorsi, popularly known as Perino del Vaga. This oil painting on canvas was completed in 1540 during the late renaissance period. Mannerist paintings of this time are characterised by elongated human proportions, stylized poses, and intellectual complexity. The mannerist painters borrowed from masters like Michelangelo and Raphael and bent the rules of painting to suit their benefit. In this piece, we can see such influence in the use of colours and the depiction of depth. This painting depicts the Virgin and her child - Jesus Christ. Both of the figures stare straight into the audience's eyes as if inviting them into their holy presence. Virgin Mary's hand is extended in space and it seems as if she is inviting the viewer to follow her and infant Christ on to the divine journey. Whereas, baby Jesus's hand is raised up with a preaching gesture - representative of the holy trinity and the dual nature of Christ. What is remarkable about this painting is the intentional use of dull and warm background colour which brings the two central figures into focus. Here, the artist has used subtler details to demonstrate his artistic prowess and intentional image-making. This includes the fine pearl on Mary's head representing chastity and grace, the transparent cloth around Christ's chest representing humility, the virgin's pink robe representing the humanity and beauty of earth, while her blue cloak represents the sky and the divine. Other precise details include the almost invisible yet bright halos around the virgin and child - these reinforce their humanity yet heavenly nature at the same time. This painting not only represents the mannerist movement prevalent at the time but also the reverence and significance of Christianity popular in Italy during the sixteenth century.