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Attributed to Peter Koellin (German, active about 1450-75)
Madonna and Child Sheltering Supplicants under Her Cloak, about 1470
Lindenwood, paint, and gold and silver leaf, H. 57 in. (144.8 cm.)
Gift of R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., 61.13.1
Sheltered beneath the folds of the Madonna's cloak, symbolic of her protection, are members of the ecclesiastic community (to the left) and secular world (on the right). The image reminded Catholic worshippers of the Virgin Mary's role as an intercessor before God, always ready to plead for mercy on behalf of those in physical or spiritual distress. Members of the religious orders to the left include a pope (identified by his tiara) a cardinal, and a bishop. The secular community counts among its numbers an emperor and knights. The Madonna stands on a crescent moon, indicating her role as Queen of Heaven. This moon once shone silver, but over time the silver leaf has worn thin, darkened, and revealed the red preparatory layer beneath it. |
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