The Virgin
and Child with Writing Case
Austria, beginning of
the 15th century
The Louvre
This is a characteristically 15th century variation on the more formal Throne of Wisdom type from earlier
centuries. We still have the throne, mother, child, and book; but
the work emphasizes the child's twofold identity as divine and human --
human, because the boy has fallen asleep during his lesson; divine,
because the pen signifies his authorship of all.
More of the Virgin and Child
Photographed at the
site by Richard Stracke