Madonna and Child with Saints 1600 - 1700

This drawing titled, "Madonna and Child with Saints" was created by an anonymous artist. During the historical period in which this drawing was made, women were often relegated to roles as mothers or religious figures, like the Virgin Mary who represents purity and maternal love. The artist here is playing with the dynamics of power and devotion, showing two kneeling saints gazing upwards to a levitating Virgin Mary holding the Christ child. One figure is holding a crown, perhaps alluding to Mary's status as Queen of Heaven. While this drawing adheres to traditional religious iconography, it invites us to consider the complexities of female identity and the different ways women are represented in art. It reflects societal ideals while perhaps subtly questioning the limited roles assigned to women. The anonymous nature of the artist only adds to the layers of interpretation, leaving us to wonder about the perspectives and intentions behind this devotional image.