Madonna and Child with Saint Elizabeth and the Infant Saint John the Baptist (The Madonna of the Roses)
Painting on wood panel • Agnolo Bronzino (or his workshop / circle of)
Style & Movement
Mannerism (High Renaissance transition)
Medium & Technique
Oil and tempera on panel; employs sfumato for soft transitions and glazing to achieve the rich luminosity of the skin tones and drapery
Creation Period
Circa 1540-1550
Dimensions & Format
Landscape format (rectangular); original dimensions approximately 60 x 85 cm (variable by copy)
Subject Description
A sacred conversation depicting the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child while the infant John the Baptist (identifiable by his reed cross) gazes up. An elderly Saint Elizabeth oversees the scene. The composition is tight and sculptural, using cool, porcelain-like skin tones characteristic of the Florentine Mannerist school.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good (apparent); the image shows some fine craquelure and possible minor retouches in the background shadows
Estimated Market Value
$150,000 - $450,000 (depending on attribution status and lab verification)
Auction Estimate
$100,000 - $300,000
Provenance History
The original composition is associated with the Medici court in Florence; numerous period copies exist in European noble collections and museums
Art Historical Significance
Represents the height of Medicean court art, emphasizing technical perfection and 'maniera' (style) over naturalism, defining the aesthetic of mid-16th century Florence.
Notable Features
Features the distinct elongated features and 'porcelain' skin typical of Bronzino; the crown of roses on the infant reflects the title 'Madonna delle Rose'.
Condition Issues
Visible network of fine craquelure; potential yellowing of old varnish layers; slight abrasion in darker pigments of the background
Conservation Recommendations
Varnish cleaning by a specialist; UV-filtered lighting; stable climate control to prevent panel warping or paint lifting