Virgin and Child

Virgin and Child refers to a depiction of Mary, mother of Jesus, holding or accompanied by the infant Christ.

This subject is among the most common in Christian art, appearing in paintings, sculptures, and icons from Byzantine times through the Renaissance and beyond: a Raphael Virgin and Child, the cathedral's Virgin and Child in marble.

The composition typically shows maternal tenderness while conveying theological significance—Mary as both human mother and vessel of divine incarnation.