Relief of the Virgin and Child

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This exquisite relief of the Virgin and Child showcases a new masterpiece from Gregorio di Lorenzo, now hailed as one of the leading sculptors of the Florentine Renaissance. Initially unknown, he was dubbed the 'Master of the Marble Madonnas' by Wilhelm von Bode in the late 19th century due to his anonymous contributions to the field. However, scholars like Alfredo Bellandi have recently shed light on his identity, linking him to a Gregorio who trained under Desiderio da Settignano's mentorship. His diverse portfolio boasts Ecce Homo reliefs, Christ and Saint John busts, as well as profile reliefs of the Twelve Caesars, crafted for Naples and Ferrara courts. Notably, his marble Virgin and Child reliefs are widely celebrated, with examples housed in prominent collections like the Museo Nazionale del Bargello in Florence and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. This remarkable piece is featured in Sotheby's Antiquities Sale on July 6th, 2017, as Lot #104.