Maestà 1280

Duccio painted this Maestà in tempera on wood during the early 14th century. The image presents the Virgin Mary enthroned as Queen of Heaven, holding the Christ Child. This work reflects the deeply religious culture of Italy at the time. Notice how Mary’s serene expression and regal attire, combined with the gold background, signify her divine status, reinforcing the power of the church. The use of hierarchical scale, with Mary as the largest figure, emphasizes her importance within the religious hierarchy. Duccio was commissioned to create this work for a private collection. However, it is worth noting that the Maestà also exists in the public realm as well. The most famous of these, commissioned for the Siena Cathedral, was celebrated as a civic ritual when it was carried through the city. Understanding the social and religious context of Duccio’s time helps us appreciate how the art of painting contributes to the veneration of the Virgin Mary. To explore this further, look into books on Sienese painting and the history of religious art.