Madonna and Child, Cenni di Francesco di Ser Cenni (active 1369–1415)

Depictions of the Madonna and Child, or the Virgin Mary with her infant son Jesus, are one of the most common representations in Christian art. In this painting the child’s chubby right hand forms a gesture of benediction, or blessing. His raised thumb, index, and middle fingers also symbolize the Trinity. Jesus holds a goldfinch in his left hand. Goldfinches eat the seeds of thistles, and are therefore associated with the crown of thorns he wears during the crucifixion. The brilliant red coloring on the head of goldfinches is also said to represent the drops of blood on Jesus’ pierced brow. In this image, the goldfinch serves as a reminder of this infant’s eventual suffering and death.