The image depicts a person from the waist up, sitting with arms crossed over their chest. The person has a simple, outlined face with a slightly somber expression, draped in layers of clothing - a blue robe with a lighter inner garment and a headdress covering their hair completely. The clothing is ornate and patterned with red and blue accents, possibly resembling traditional religious attire. No visible jewelry, accessories, or objects are held. A halo surrounds the person's head, suggesting religious importance. The background is plain, with abstract blue swirls on a golden-brown canvas.

Gallery mode Full size at the museum

The Virgin in the Clouds

or Attributed to artist Master of the Housebook (German, active c. 1470 - 1500)

German 15th Century

c. 1470/1480

Medium: woodcut, hand-colored in blue, red, orange, and gold
Classification: Print
Culture: Augsburg
Museum: National Gallery of Art, CG-E
Credit line: Rosenwald Collection
Rights: Public domain (NGA Open Access, CC0), as the museum states it.
Who can see it: Tweens profiles and older: its subjects are known and suit older children. How works are placed

View at the National Gallery of Art

More by Master of the Housebook

See all

More like this

See all