The Virgin and Child with Saint John and an Angel (Workshop) Alessandro Botticelli (1445-1510)

Here we observe a devotional panel depicting a central female figure holding an infant, flanked by two youthful figures on either side. The composition is contained within a circular format, typical of portable altarpieces or medallions intended for private contemplation.
The woman, presumably the mother, occupies the compositional center. Her gaze is directed forward, exhibiting a quiet solemnity rather than overt emotion. She wears a dark blue robe with a crimson undergarment visible at the neckline, colors that carry symbolic weight within religious iconography – blue often representing royalty and piety, while red can signify sacrifice or divine love. The infant she cradles appears relaxed, his body partially exposed, suggesting vulnerability and innocence.
To her left stands a young boy, identifiable as Saint John by the traditional attributes of hair length and attire. He gestures towards the mother and child with an expression that seems to convey reverence or recognition. His clothing is a vibrant red, echoing the color in the woman’s undergarment and potentially reinforcing his role within the narrative.
On the right, another youthful figure – an angel – is depicted holding what appears to be a length of white fabric. The angels pose is more dynamic than that of Saint John; he leans slightly forward, as if presenting the cloth or offering support. His attire is a yellow-orange hue, providing a contrast to the cooler tones dominating the rest of the scene.
The background is a deep, uniform blue, which serves to isolate and emphasize the figures within. The lack of detail in the backdrop contributes to the painting’s focus on spiritual contemplation rather than worldly setting.
Subtly, theres an interplay between maternal tenderness and divine significance. The woman’s posture suggests both protectiveness and a sense of profound responsibility. The presence of Saint John and the angel elevates the scene beyond a simple familial portrait; it implies a narrative of prophecy and salvation. The circular format itself reinforces this notion of wholeness, eternity, and divine perfection. While the execution appears somewhat simplified – suggesting perhaps a workshop production rather than the work of a master artist – the composition retains a sense of grace and devotional power.