The Virgin and Child with Angels

The Master of the Cologne Legend of Saint Ursula was an anonymous painter active in Cologne around 1490-1510, named after a cycle of paintings depicting the legend of the virgin martyr. This Virgin and Child with Angels from around 1480 reflects the refined devotional art that characterized Cologne, one of the richest and most artistically productive cities in late medieval Germany. The oil medium allowed for rich tonal transitions and glazed layers of color that created luminous depth impossible with the older tempera technique.

Oil on panel with the bright, jewel-like coloring characteristic of the Cologne school. The angelic attendants and the luminous coloring create a celestial atmosphere suited to Cologne's refined devotional traditions.