Skip to Main Content

Due to required maintenance, some galleries and artwork may be off view. Learn more.

Open today: 10am-5pm

c. 1470

Virgin and Child

The Christ child nursing at the Virgin's breast was a favorite subject in Netherlandish painting during the fifteenth century. Rogier van der Weyden popularized this devotional image, which artists repeated for generations. By showing the Infant Christ nursing, the artist emphasized both the human nature of Christ and the Virgin's role as the merciful and benevolent mother of all humanity.

This record is part of an ongoing effort to share accurate and evolving information. If you notice anything we should improve, we welcome your feedback at [email protected]

Images on this site are shared for educational use. For image rights, permissions, or to learn more about image rights and access, email [email protected]

Virgin and Child, c. 1470 | Philadelphia Art Museum