Introduction to the Renaissance: "The Alba Madonna" by Raphael

The students have been examining two paintings of Mary and Jesus:
  • Cimabue's Madonna Enthroned (an example of a medieval painting)
    • Raphael's Alba Madonna (an example of a Renaissance painting)
    We are using these two paintings as our introduction to the Renaissance. We discussed similarities and differences between the two paintings, and we started to discuss the way that art can reveal the changing outlooks and ideas of people during different periods of history.

    -----------

    Several perceptive students pointed out that both sets of figures have halos -- although the halos in Raphael's work are so soft and subtle that they often escape notice!

    Here are a few of the excellent observations and questions:

    ... about Madonna Enthroned, by Cimabue

    Coco, Riley, Ally, Christopher: Jesus and Mary are sitting on a beautifully carved golden throne.

    Mia: The main color of the painting is gold, which could represent the importance of Mary and Jesus.

    Hunter: In this painting, Jesus is blessing someone. Who?

    Katherine: The men at the bottom of this painting are holding a scroll. What could it say?


                      ... about The Alba Madonna, by Raphael

    Ellie: I think Mary and Jesus left the city (in the background) to show that they are humble.

    Gracie Lou: The little child on the left looks upset. He is getting less attention than Jesus, so maybe he is jealous of Jesus.

    Priya: Compared to the medieval painting, this painting is realistic and detailed, with good perspective.

    Phineas: This painting is filled with beautiful colors.

    Artie and Maxwell: Who are the two shadowy figures in the
    background, hiding under a tree? Do they represent something? Is one of them a centaur?

    Hannah: Mary is holding a book. Did the real Mary know how to read?

    Darrah: Jesus is holding a cross, so he already knows what will happen to him -- even though he is still young.

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