In this devotional panel, the virgin mary is depicted reading. Her status as the queen of heaven is emphasized by the golden crown-studded with jewels and pearls and adorned with red and white roses-held by the angels. Attached to the virgin's mantle is a small pendant cross from which pearls are suspended. Antonello's preference for geometric shapes is characteristic of the early italian renaissance. From his study of contemporary flemish painting, the artist had learned about the use of oil glazes. The technique permitted him to create unprecedented rich details with textures that reflected light in different ways. This is particularly visible in the crown. Date: between circa 1460 and circa 1462 (Renaissance). Place of creation: Sicily, Italy. Dimensions: Painted surface height: 44.1 cm (17.3 in); width: 32 cm (12.5 in); depth: 0.8 cm (0.3 in); Framed height: 64.8 cm (25.5 in); width: 52.1 cm (20.5 in); depth: 5.7 cm (2.2 in). Medium: tempera and oil on wood panel. Collection: Walters Art Museum. Antonello da Messina - The Virgin Mary Reading - Walters 37433
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