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The Adoration of Mary

Written by Monica Barry

    This Della Robbia replica is found on the side of the Archbishop Alemany Library, located next to Library Lawn. It is a depiction of the Virgin Mary and the Baby Jesus. The detailing surrounding the main figures offers the viewer signs that the depictions are indeed the Virgin Mary and the Baby Jesus. Furthermore, this scene is a scene of the holy Adoration of Mary. Above the female figure’s head, the viewer sees two angels, along with two arms holding a crown above the Virgin’s head, signaling the Adoration. With the traditional blue background depicted in Della Robbia styled works, the figures stand out with their bright white detailing. Above the baby Jesus is a halo, along with numerous lilies. In Renaissance art, white lilies are used to represent the Virgin Mary herself, along with purity and the resurrection. 

    The use of color in this specific Della Robbia replica is a major point of focus. There are four main colors depicted; traditional blue, off-white, golden yellow, and grass green. In Renaissance art, blue is described as being used to represent peace and tranquility, whilst yellow represents optimism. However, the golden yellow hue used in this work also represents the sacred holy figures, signifying that they are deities. Green represents nature and health; for this reason, it is important to note the placement of Baby Jesus in the green grass. Other Della Robbia sculptures can be seen with more vivid colors, such as reds and pinks coloring the fruits that often frame the main image. There is no border of fruit on this specific sculpture, drawing all attention to the depiction of the Virgin Mary and the Baby Jesus. 

 

    This Della Robbia sculpture also has incredible detailing. Each blade of grass can be identified, and the creases in the Virgin Mary’s robes are intensely depicted. Many other Della Robbia replicas around campus have less of a focus on detailing smaller aspects of the pieces, with all attention to detailing pertaining to the major figures. However, this piece pays close attention to the beauty of nature, along with the angels above the two main holy figures. With the many intricate colors, detailings, and depiction of the Adoration, this Della Robbia replica is very unique to Dominican University’s collection. 

Citations:

 

"Della Robbia: A Closer Look". 2019. Nga.Gov.

https://www.nga.gov/features/della-robbia-a-closer-look.html.

Heller, Daniel. 2019. "Symbolism In Renaissance Art When Something Depicts Something Else". Artgreet. https://artgreet.com/symbols-in-renaissance-art/

"The Meaning Of Flowers In Byzantine, Gothic And Renaissance Painting". 2019. Historyofpainters.Com. http://www.historyofpainters.com/flowers.htm

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