CORNELIS VAN HAARLEM
(b. 1562, Haarlem, d. 1638, Haarlem)

Madonna and Child

1617
Oil on canvas, 97 x 80 cm
Amstelkring Museum, Amsterdam

In this obscure interior, Mary is standing beside a table with a rug and cushion. She is shielding and protecting her naked infant. Christ is receiving a pear from his mother - or perhaps she from him. The pear represents Christ's love for humanity.