Earlier this year, I received a nice comment on my San Zaccaria post from fellow lover of Venice, Palisandre, who asked if I had a close-up of the Madonna above the portal that leads into Campo San Zaccaria. I had a photo of that beautiful relief but not a close-up, so I put that on my "to do" list on my recent trip.
This is one of the nicest pieces of outdoor sculptures in Venice. It's a late Gothic work that was done around 1430 and shows the Madonna and Child in between John the Baptist and St. Mark with San Zaccaria above them.
Thanks to Palisandre for inspiring me to re-visit her. She's just as beautiful as the Bellini Madonna inside the church. And I love the expression on the baby's face and the way his hand is on her shoulder.
I'm very intrigued by the little balcony to the left of the relief. It would be fun to see her from there!
You can click on the photos to see them larger, on Flickr.
Comments (5)
Annie, that is a beautiful carving and in fantastic shape! But I think that I'd have to argue that the Bellini Madonna is more beautiful -- that entire altarpiece is so lovely.
Posted by sandrac | December 21, 2010 2:14 PM
Posted on December 21, 2010 14:14
Hi Sandra, you're right...apples and oranges to compare them though I meant to say that her face is just as beautiful as the Bellini Madonna's face. :)
Happy Holidays!
Posted by Annie | December 22, 2010 11:42 AM
Posted on December 22, 2010 11:42
Hi Annie, that is a very beautiful piece and I also love the gesture of baby Jesus' hand on Mary. I'm also thankful that you returned to capture a close up and for sharing it with us.
Thank you so much. Enjoy your Holidays.
Posted by Kathy (Trekcapri) | December 23, 2010 8:52 AM
Posted on December 23, 2010 08:52
I can't believe it!
The Madonna!
THANK YOU!
Thank you so much!
You have NO IDEA how much this means to me!
And it is such a beautiful set of photos, too.
I am sure many more will appreciate them.
Thank you very, very much.
God bless you for this kindness.
Posted by Palisandre | January 20, 2012 4:21 PM
Posted on January 20, 2012 16:21
You are welcome! It was fun to have a mission, and I enjoyed getting a closer look at her too. I'm still so intriqued by that little balcony!
Thanks for letting me know that you saw them. :)
Posted by Annie | January 20, 2012 5:03 PM
Posted on January 20, 2012 17:03