FRANCESCO DI GIORGIO MARTINI
(b. 1439, Siena, d. 1502, Siena)

Virgin and Child with St Catherine and Angels

c. 1490
Mixed technique on panel, 62 x 42 cm
Fundación Colección Thyssen-Bornemisza, Pedralbes

The Virgin is seated in the foreground, gently supporting the Child on her lap. Behind Him are placed four figures in front of a flat and undefined background of a striking red, which is decorated with a printed black design of curving tendrils. The artist's technical skill is evident in the transparency of the haloes, which are subtly painted as if they were fine lace. Notable are the modelling of the hands and faces, and the lyrical poses of the Virgin and Child and the background figures.