The Virgin and Child on a Grassy Bank, Turned Towards the Right c. 1480 - 1490

This is an engraving, "The Virgin and Child on a Grassy Bank, Turned Towards the Right," by an anonymous artist. The composition presents a tender scene, yet the formal arrangement of lines and shapes creates a structured visual experience. Note how the Virgin and Child are situated within a precisely rendered grassy landscape. The lines that define the folds of the Virgin's robes are not merely descriptive; they create a complex interplay of light and shadow. This, in turn, adds depth and volume to the figures. Similarly, the textures of the grassy bank, the wooden fence, and the vegetation are meticulously detailed, showcasing the engraver's mastery over the medium. The contrast between the smooth, serene faces of the Virgin and Child and the detailed textures surrounding them draws us into the artwork. Consider the halos, simple geometric forms, which contrast with the complexity of the fabric and foliage. This contrast between geometric and organic forms may reflect a broader artistic interest in balancing the ideal with the natural, the divine with the earthly.