Enthroned Madonna and Child with Saints Jerome and Francis of Assisi (Attr) Tiberio d’Assisi (c.1470-1524)

The composition presents a central figure of a woman seated on a throne, holding an infant in her lap. She is flanked by two male figures positioned at either side. The scene unfolds against a backdrop of a dark green wall, partially obscured by a decorative architectural element behind the enthroned woman.
The woman’s attire consists of a red and gold garment, with a blue cloak draped over her shoulders. Her gaze is directed towards the viewer, conveying an air of solemnity and maternal tenderness. The infant she holds wears a golden halo and appears to be engaged in a gesture of blessing or offering. A small dog sits at the base of the throne, adding a touch of domesticity to the otherwise elevated and sacred setting.
To the left of the woman stands a bearded man wearing an orange robe and a red hat. He is absorbed in reading from a large book held open in his hands. His posture suggests contemplation and scholarly devotion. On the right side, another male figure, clad in a brown habit, holds a smaller book and points upwards with his right hand, perhaps indicating divine inspiration or guidance.
The throne itself rests upon an inscription panel, which bears Latin text – A.D. MCCCC XII DIE XX MENSI AVGUSTI. This suggests the work was created on August 20th, 1412. The decorative elements of the base include intricate patterns and a sense of structured order.
The painting’s subtexts revolve around themes of piety, learning, and divine grace. The presence of the two male figures, one engaged in textual study and the other gesturing towards the heavens, implies the importance of both intellectual pursuit and spiritual connection. The dog, often associated with fidelity and devotion, reinforces this sense of unwavering faith. The overall arrangement suggests a hierarchical structure – the enthroned woman representing divine motherhood and authority, supported by the figures embodying knowledge and religious practice. The inscription provides a specific historical anchor for the work, grounding it within a particular time and place while simultaneously elevating its significance through association with sacred events or patronage.