The Madonna Enthroned is a prime example of early Renaissance art. The Madonna is shown full-face, seated on a gilded throne composed of architectural elements from classical antiquity, which was the main source of inspiration of the day. She is dressed in a robe of cloth of gold and wears the traditional blue mantle. The Virgin Mary appears here as Virgo lactans, the nursing Madonna. A gentle light plays on her face, bringing out its full plasticity. Her gaze is serene and introspective. Two small angels stand on the throne, entertaining Mary and Jesus with music on the lute and recorder. The painting was done for an unknown monastery. It may have been intended as the central image for an altarpiece consisting of several parts, with saints in the flanking panels.
Björn Fredlund from The Collection Gothenburg Museum of Art, Gothenburg 2014
