Relief of the Virgin and Child

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The image of the enthroned Virgin cradling the infant Christ in her arms dominated Christian art for centuries. Its origins, however, stretch back to ancient civilizations, where Roman and Egyptian artists depicted goddesses, empresses, and ordinary mortals in similar poses. This particular example once sat proudly on the staircase connecting Cremona's cathedral and episcopal palace in northern Italy. Some gestures used in medieval art carried significant meaning. In this depiction, the infant Christ extends his right hand, a gesture of blessing that conveyed God's favor to the viewer. The index and middle fingers are raised high, while the remaining fingers and thumb rest against his palm, emphasizing the divine message.