#LaMadonnaDellaSedia (La Madonna Della Seggiola) was painted by Italian renaissance painter Raphael in 1514.  It is housed in the Palazzo Pitti collection in Florence. It depicts Mary embracing the child Christ, while a young John the Baptist watches on adoringly.

La Madonna della Sedia etcher unknown after Raphael

I acquired this drypoint etching recently.  It has been trimmed slightly so no credit is given to the artist who created this artwork.  It is an amazing piece of work.  Containing drypoint, line engraving , cross hatching, and stipple work this artist has produced a work of astounding beauty. This etching has also been coloured by hand.  It emulates the warm colours that Raphael used in the original.

The sheet size is 365mm (14 3/8″) x 437mm (17 1/4″).  The circular print is 317mm (12 1/2″).  So, this is no small endeavour by the artist.

La Madonna Della Sedia etcher unknown

So that you might appreciate the wonderful technique of this artist, I include a couple of close-ups of segments of the work.  I love the superb fine line engraving giving way to stipple work which contrasts with the soft richness of the drypoint etching.  There is such life in the faces and Mary’s eyes appear to be looking right at you.  The adoration in the face of the child John as he looks upon the Christ child and his mother is palpable.  If you increase the size of the pictures you can appreciate the finesse involved in this work.  I hope you enjoy the supreme artistry involved in this work as much as I do.

La Madonna Della Sedia etcher unknown