Maria met kind, kniestuk c. 1386 - 1466

Donatello made this bronze relief of Maria and Child in the 15th century, during the early Renaissance. Consider the bronze itself: strong, durable, and capable of capturing fine detail. Donatello expertly used the lost-wax casting process to create this relief. Molten bronze was poured into a mold, allowed to cool, and then the mold was broken away, revealing the artwork. This was a labor-intensive method, requiring specialized skills and equipment. The material and process also influence the relief's appearance. Bronze has a natural warmth and luster, which is evident in the subtle highlights on Maria's face and the child's body. The casting process allowed Donatello to achieve a remarkable level of detail, from the folds in Maria's drapery to the delicate features of the child. Bronze casting was not only a technical skill but also a cultural one, deeply connected to the history of sculpture and metalworking. Donatello elevated this craft to the level of fine art, demonstrating the power of materials and making to convey profound human emotions.