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Why might Piero della Francesca have painted the Brera Madonna?
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Piero della Francesca
The Flagellation of Christ, tempera on wood panel by Piero della Francesca, late 1450s; in the National Gallery of the Marches, Urbino, Italy.
The Brera Madonna, also known as the Montefeltro Altarpiece, is believed to have been commissioned by Federico da Montefeltro, the Duke of Urbino, as a votive work following the death of his wife, Battista Sforza, who passed away after giving birth to their son, Guidobaldo.1
The painting likely served as a memorial and a means for the Duke to present himself to his intercessors. Evidence for this interpretation includes:
- Personalized Imagery: The features of the Virgin Mary are purportedly those of Battista Sforza, while the infant Christ is thought to resemble their newborn son.1
- Votive Presence: The inclusion of the kneeling, pious figure of Federico da Montefeltro suggests a personal, devotional function.1
- Symbolism: The ostrich egg suspended from the scallop-shell design is likely a symbol of resurrection, fitting for a commemorative work.1
Beyond its commemorative purpose, the work showcases Piero della Francesca's mastery of architecture, geometry, and the rational treatment of light and space, standing as a significant example of his contribution to Quattrocento painting.1