A rare depiction of the Madonna and Child

(Active circa 1500–1550) Madonna and Child with Saint Dominic and Two Angels. Depiction of Mary with long, loose hair and a gilded nuptial disc, wearing a gold fabric dress with bright red cuffs and a blue cloak; on her knees sits Jesus, still a boy in a long white garment, holding a prayer rosary; behind them are two angels holding a gold silk cloth; to the right of the image is Saint Dominic, a young monk; in the background, a landscape with trees, a church, and small figures. An iconographically rare, early depiction of the Madonna in connection with Saint Dominic, founder of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans). According to a legend widespread since the 15th century, Saint Dominic received a prayer rosary in 1208 during an apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the fight against the Albigensians and introduced it into his order. The style of the figure of Mary with the angels reflects the influence of Early Netherlandish painting, as well as Quentin Massys (1465/66–1530) and Ambrosius Benson (circa 1495–1550).
Oil (and tempera?) on a wooden panel. Frame in good condition; image approximately 48 cm x 34 cm; overall dimensions 56 cm x 42.5 cm. Dutch or Flemish artist, active circa 1500–1550. Minor frame defects.