Madonna and Child 1475 - 1485

Carlo Crivelli painted this small panel of the Madonna and Child in the late fifteenth century, using tempera on wood. Tempera is a meticulous process, demanding patience and precision. Pigments are bound with egg yolk and applied in thin, translucent layers, building up depth and luminosity. Note the Madonna's robe: the intricate patterns and fine details are a testament to Crivelli’s skill. The tooling of the gold leaf, used for the halos, demonstrates the artist’s engagement with techniques common to metalworking. Beyond the religious subject, Crivelli’s work offers insight into the material culture of his time. The fruits, the textiles, and the architecture all speak to a world of goods, skills, and trade. Look closely at the fly on the ledge: this naturalistic detail is both a demonstration of technical virtuosity, and a reminder of our own mortality. By considering the materials and processes, we can see Crivelli as a master craftsman. He elevates his art to a level that transcends mere representation, inviting reflection on the social and economic context that shaped its creation.