“Madonna of the Stairs,” crafted by the esteemed artist Michelangelo circa 1490 in Florence, Italy, is an exemplary work of High Renaissance art. The sculpture, measuring 56.7 x 40.1 cm, is currently housed in Casa Buonarroti, Florence, Italy. This piece belongs to the sculpture genre and reveals the early promise of Michelangelo’s skill and mastery.
The artwork features a bas-relief sculpture, depicting the Virgin Mary, known as Madonna, seated with the Christ child on her lap. The elegance and serenity of the figures are accentuated by the delicate handling of the medium, showcasing Michelangelo’s acute attention to detail and naturalistic representation. The Madonna, with a tender and contemplative expression, exudes maternal grace while holding the infant Christ lovingly. To the left, two putti are depicted in a dynamic manner, climbing stairs, which adds a subtle sense of depth and movement to the composition. The drapery of the Madonna’s clothing is meticulously carved, creating a lifelike texture that enhances the realism and overall ethereal quality of the piece.
