Madonna Orante 

Sassoferrato painted this Madonna, also known as the Virgin in Prayer, sometime in the 17th century. As a devout follower of the Catholic church, Sassoferrato sought to capture the pure and idealized essence of the Virgin Mary, which strongly reflects the religious and cultural norms of his time. The painting evokes a sense of intimacy through its focused composition on Mary's face and hands, drawing viewers into her private moment of prayer. Her submissive gaze and folded hands express humility and devotion, embodying the virtues often associated with women during that era. Yet, it's important to remember that while this image presents a traditional representation, it also opens up a space for reflecting on the historical roles assigned to women. Mary's quiet contemplation might also suggest a hidden strength. Ultimately, Sassoferrato’s Madonna Orante is a powerful image that embodies both the personal and societal expectations placed upon women in the 17th century.