Francesco d Antonio di Bartolomeo – The Virgin and Child with Six Angels and Two Cherubim Part 2 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a central female figure, presumably a mother, holding an infant in her arms. She is positioned within a deeply recessed architectural niche, framed by ornate gilded columns and an elaborate arched top. The background behind the figures is a dark, uniform grey, which serves to emphasize their luminosity and bring them forward.
The mother wears a rich blue robe, heavily draped and adorned with golden embroidery that suggests both wealth and divine status. A crown sits atop her head, further reinforcing this regal quality. Her expression is serene and contemplative, directed towards the viewer with an air of gentle authority. The infant she cradles appears to be in a state of peaceful repose, his face turned slightly away from the observer.
Surrounding the central figures are eight smaller beings: six angels and two cherubim. The angels stand on either side of the mother, their poses varied – some gaze directly forward, others look down at the infant, creating a sense of attentive reverence. Their garments are lighter in color than the mother’s robe, contributing to a visual hierarchy that places her as the focal point. The two cherubim float above and behind the angels, adding an element of ethereal lightness to the scene.
The architectural setting is significant. The niche suggests a sacred space, perhaps an altar or shrine. The gilded details on the columns and archway are not merely decorative; they contribute to the overall sense of opulence and divine presence. The lower portion of the frame features small, sculpted figures that appear to be saints or patrons, further grounding the scene within a religious context.
Subtly, there is an interplay between earthly and heavenly realms. The architectural structure represents the tangible world, while the angels and cherubim embody the spiritual realm. The mother’s posture and expression convey both maternal tenderness and divine grace, suggesting a union of these two spheres. The use of gold leaf throughout the composition reinforces this sense of sacredness and transcendence. The overall effect is one of solemn piety and reverence for the figures depicted.