Circle of Andrea Mantegna, Mantua, XVI century.

Circle of ANDREA MANTEGNA (Italy, ca. 1431 - 1506); Mantua, XVI century.
"Madonna and Child enthroned behind saints".
Relief in gilded silver.
Work published in PAX TIBI, Mostra Paci litugiche XVI- XVIII, sec. Gaeta- Museo, Diocesano, pg. 47. Lam. 36.
Measurements: 14 x 10, 8 cm.
Relief realized in gilded silver representing the Madonna and Child enthroned among saints. With a skillful play of perspective, the Virgin seated on a throne is in the background in front of the four saints in the foreground. On the left, we seem to recognize St. Vitale of Verona, covered with the splendid Roman armor. His right hand rests on the helmet with crest, the shield is also seen and on it the sword. Behind him is Bishop Nicholas, who with his left hand offers the Virgin the golden balls for the three maidens who were to be married. On the other side is a well-modeled nude showing the Punctures of arrows on the back: it is St. Sebastian still with his arms tied behind his back, and behind him St. Anthony Abbot with crozier and the traditional piglet. The Virgin wears a rich, tight-fitting tunic. A mantle wraps her knees, from which the Infant Jesus seems to slip, perhaps wanting to go to St. John, who is kneeling near the Virgin's feet. On the step of the pedestal of the Madonna's seat there are two cupids with two roosters, while in the center of the pedestal a pagan sacrifice is represented: a bull is pushed towards the altar. Behind the Madonna, subdivided into two horizontal compartments, is the background with meticulous bas-reliefs of Renaissance inspiration derived from the stucco of Roman art.
Andrea Mantenga was one of the most outstanding artists of the Italian Quattrocento, author of key Renaissance works such as his "Lamentation on the Dead Christ" (1457-1501). Focused on the study of human proportions, he played an important role in the development of Italian art in the early 16th century. He also produced numerous engravings, an appropriate medium for expressing his incisive drawing. He is currently represented in the most important art galleries around the world, including the Louvre, the Hermitage and the National Gallery in London.