3-002-412 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Virgin and Child, with the Crucifixion and the Annunciation, and the Coronation of the Virgin and the Presentation in the Temple, c1340-1348. The central scene of this altarpiece depicts the enthroned Madonna and Child flanked by angels. The Christ Child holds a tiny European goldfinch, a symbol of his resurrection. The bird is tethered, a reminder that, in the 14th century, such animals were kept as pets by children. Angels present Mary with chalices of white flowers, alluding to her purity. On the left appear the Annunciation and the Crucifixion, while Christ's Presentation in the Temple and the Coronation of the Virgin are on the right.