Virgin and Child

myminifactory

Domenico (di Giovanni) ROSSELLI emerged around 1439 near Pistoia, and by 1497/8 had passed away in Fossombrone. A Virgin and Child from late 15th century Italy, crafted from limestone, is a prized possession. I purchased this piece of art in 1895 from Emilio Costantini in Florence. It is identified as inventory number 1168. Domenico Rosselli's sculptural work was deeply influenced by the Florentines Desiderio da Settignano and Antonio Rossellino. The latter likely served as his master. At the start of his career, Rosselli worked in Bologna before becoming active in Florence and its surroundings. From the 1470s until his death, he lived and worked in the Marche region. He held the position of designer and decorative sculptor at the Palazzo Ducale in Urbino, which was commissioned by Federico da Montefeltro, a renowned condottiero and patron of the Italian Renaissance. While not the most exceptional Florentine sculptor of his time, Rosselli's Madonna reliefs, including one in Budapest, stand out as some of his greatest achievements.