Italian, Umbrian – Umbrian Diptych Part 4 National Gallery UK

The diptych presents two distinct yet related devotional panels. The left panel depicts a Madonna and Child, while the right portrays a figure identified as Christ. Both are set against a gold background, characteristic of Umbrian painting traditions.

On the left, the Virgin Mary is rendered in a dark blue robe, her face exhibiting a solemn expression. She holds the infant Jesus, who gestures towards the viewer with his hand. The child’s clothing is vibrant red, creating a striking contrast against the Madonnas somber attire and the gold backdrop. The composition is frontal and symmetrical, emphasizing the figures’ dignity and spiritual importance.

The right panel features Christ in a posture of lamentation, known as Pietà. His head droops downwards, his eyes cast towards the ground, conveying sorrow and suffering. He clasps his hands over his chest, further accentuating this emotional state. The figures skin tone is notably greenish, a stylistic choice common in medieval art that may have been intended to symbolize humanity’s fragility or spiritual purity rather than represent a realistic depiction of color. Above Christ, inscribed lettering identifies him as Ecce Agnus Dei, Rex Iudaeorum – “Behold the Lamb of God, King of the Jews.” This inscription directly references his sacrificial role in Christian theology.

The gold background serves to elevate both figures, placing them within a realm beyond earthly concerns and emphasizing their divine nature. The limited color palette – primarily blue, red, and gold – contributes to the painting’s overall sense of austerity and reverence.

Subtly, the diptych explores themes of motherhood, sacrifice, and divinity. The Madonnas maternal gaze suggests compassion and protection, while Christ’s posture embodies suffering and redemption. The pairing of these two figures underscores the interconnectedness of the human and divine realms within Christian belief. The overall effect is one of profound spiritual contemplation, inviting viewers to reflect on themes of faith, loss, and salvation.