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, Italian, fl. after 1445
Title
The Virgin and Child with Saints Peter and Mary Magdalene
Date1470s
MediumOil on panel
Dimensions
171 x 164 cm
Signedlower centre: jaco[mo] delpisano
Credit LinePresented, Sir Alfred Chester Beatty, 1951
Object numberNGI.1202
Label TextIn this vibrant triptych - altarpiece comprising three panels - an angel offers a goldfinch to a nervous-looking Christ Child. According to legend, the goldfinch acquired its red spot when it was splashed with Christ’s blood after pulling a thorn from his forehead before the crucifixion. To the left, the penitent Mary Magdalene’s long hair forms a cloak to cover her naked body. Saint Peter holds a gospel book and keys. Details of the Sienese artist's career are obscure, although it is thought that he was an assistant to Giovanni di Paolo.