#20338 Jan Mabuse Gossaert (Gossart) (1478-1532)

The painting presents a devotional scene centered around a mother and child. Here we observe a woman, presumably a maternal figure, seated against a dark blue background that emphasizes her form and attire. She is draped in flowing red robes lined with deep purple, the fabric meticulously rendered to suggest weight and texture. A pale yellow headscarf partially obscures her hair, revealing strands of auburn curls. Her gaze is directed outward, conveying an expression that blends serenity with a hint of melancholy or introspection.
The child, held close to her breast, nurses openly. The artist has paid considerable attention to the infant’s anatomy – the delicate curve of his cheek pressed against her skin, the tiny fingers grasping at her garment, and the subtle modeling of his face all contribute to a sense of naturalism. A palpable tenderness emanates from their interaction.
The womans right hand is raised in a gesture that could be interpreted as blessing or offering. The positioning of this hand, along with the child’s direct gaze towards the viewer, establishes a connection between the depicted scene and the observer.
Subtleties within the painting suggest layers of meaning beyond the immediate depiction of motherhood. The womans somewhat weary expression might allude to the burdens and responsibilities inherent in maternal care. The rich colors and detailed rendering point toward an elevated status or significance, hinting at a symbolic role for both figures. The inscription visible on the left edge of the frame – VERVS DEVS – provides a crucial clue, suggesting a religious context and potentially identifying the woman as the Virgin Mary.
The overall effect is one of quiet reverence and profound emotional depth. The artist has skillfully combined naturalistic detail with symbolic elements to create an image that invites contemplation on themes of faith, motherhood, and divine grace.