Madonna and Child, before 1490, Ng Washington Det(4 Carlo Crivelli (c.1430-1495)

The fragment presented reveals a close-up detail from a devotional panel, likely depicting a Madonna and Child. The composition is dominated by two distinct elements: a cluster of fruit hanging from a branch and a portion of the childs face adorned with elaborate jewelry.
Here we see three large, pear-shaped fruits suspended from a slender, dark brown stem. Their surfaces are rendered with meticulous attention to detail, showcasing subtle variations in tone that suggest volume and texture. The leaves accompanying the fruit possess a deep green hue, their forms sharply defined against the background. This arrangement of fruit is not merely decorative; it carries symbolic weight within the context of religious iconography. Pears often represent fertility, abundance, and the Tree of Knowledge from Genesis, introducing layers of meaning related to innocence lost and divine grace.
Adjacent to the fruit, a portion of the child’s face emerges. The skin tone appears pale, contrasted by the dark hair visible at the edge of the frame. A complex headdress or necklace is prominently displayed; it consists of numerous small pearls strung together with intricate patterns. A single, large ruby sits centrally within this ornamentation. This lavish display of jewels underscores the child’s divinity and royal status, referencing his role as King of Kings. The detail suggests a deliberate emphasis on opulence and preciousness, reinforcing the sacred nature of the subject.
The background is rendered in a warm, golden hue, which contributes to the overall sense of reverence and luminosity. The gilding used for this background further elevates the image’s spiritual significance. The framing elements – the red inner border and the gold outer edge – provide visual boundaries and enhance the panels formal presentation.
The juxtaposition of the naturalistic fruit with the idealized depiction of the child creates a compelling interplay between earthly abundance and divine perfection, inviting contemplation on themes of faith, innocence, and royalty.