Virgin and Child 1445

Jean Fouquet painted this "Virgin and Child" in the 15th century, and it's a striking example of how personal identity and cultural context can shape religious art. The Virgin Mary is depicted as a regal figure, adorned with jewels and surrounded by angels. What's fascinating is that she is believed to be modeled after Agnès Sorel, a mistress of King Charles VII. This choice blurs the lines between the sacred and the secular, elevating a woman who held significant influence in the royal court to an almost divine status. The pale skin, shaved hairline, and the attire of the angels reflect the beauty standards and courtly fashion of the time. Fouquet's portrayal challenges traditional representations of the Virgin Mary. The painting is less about religious piety and more about earthly power, beauty, and the complex relationships between church, state, and individual identity.