"virgo Lactans" Oil On Panel 17th Century Artist

Madonna del Latte "Virgo Lactans"
Oil on panel
17th-century artist
Contemporary box frame
Panel 46 x 59 cm Frame 67 x 77 cm
Excellent condition

The Madonna del Latte is one of the most moving and venerated sacred images in Christian tradition, depicting the Virgin Mary breastfeeding the baby Jesus. This particular image is also known by the Latin name "Virgo Lactans" and the Greek "Maria Galaktotrophousa." This iconography of Eastern origins transcends artistic boundaries to become a universal symbol of Motherhood, Love, Hope and Divine protection.


During the Counter-Reformation in 1543, the Council of Trent heavily influenced this Marian representation. The decree "De invocatione, veneratione, et reliquiis sanctorum et sacris imaginibus" (On the invocation, veneration, and holy relics and sacred images) placed limits on depictions deemed sensual.
The great censor, Carlo Borromeo, personally worked to have the Virgin's breasts covered, modifying images deemed inappropriate.
But popular resistance, despite the bans, continued her veneration. The Madonna del Latte remained the image of Motherhood par excellence.
The panel is in excellent condition, professionally cleaned and parqueted. It is complete with its beautiful contemporary box frame, lacquered and with elegant gilded decorations.