Virgin and Child Enthroned
Historical Context
Rogier van der Weyden's Virgin and Child Enthroned, dating to around 1430, shows the Madonna seated on an elaborate throne in a composition that draws on the medieval tradition of the Sedes Sapientiae (Seat of Wisdom). Now in the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, Madrid, the work reflects Rogier's early style before his appointment as official painter to the city of Brussels in 1436. The formal enthroned composition would give way to more intimate treatments in his later career.
Technical Analysis
The painting displays Rogier's characteristic precision in drapery rendering with angular, cascading folds, combined with the warm flesh tones and jewel-like colors achieved through careful Netherlandish oil glazing technique.
See It In Person
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