The intact condition and unique format of this altarpiece make it a truly remarkable painting. The central panel depicts a stunning madonna and child, flanked on the left by half-length figures of st. Peter above st. John the baptist and, on the right, by st. Paul above st. Francis of assisi. The virgin's robe is carved and decorated with gold leaf that shimmered in the candlelight, a surface treatment common in byzantine paintings. Because of the crescent moon at her feet, the rays emanating from her body, and the gold curling through her cloak, the virgin seems to hover behind the frame. The molding of the inner frame crops the composition like an open window, offering a glimpse into the sacred, timeless realm beyond. On the back of the left wing are two preparatory drawings by the artist. For more information on this piece, please see zeri catalogue number 41, pp. 68-71. Date: between circa 1410 and circa 1420 (Middle Ages). Place of creation: Marche, Italy. Dimensions: Central panel H including frame: 63 x W: 30 3/8 x D: 1 1/4 in. (160 x 77.2 x 3.1 cm); Left wing H including frame: 63 1/4 x W: 27 9/16 x D: 1 1/4 in. (160.6 x 70 x 3.1 cm); Right wing H including frame: 63 5/16 x W: 27 5/16 x D: 1 1/4 in. (160.8 x 69.3 x 3.1 cm). Medium: oil and gold on panel. Collection: Walters Art Museum. Olivuccio di Ciccarello da Camerino - Madonna and Child with Saints Peter, Paul, John the Baptist, and Francis - Walters 37699
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