Madonna of the Rose Garden

Madonna of the Rose Garden is a tempera on panel artwork from circa 1469-1470 by the master of the Early Italian Renaissance, Sandro Botticelli

This artist produced many depictions of the Madonna during his career and this particular one has been on display at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence for many years.

The many years that have passed since this early stage of the Renaissance has meant that, unfortunately, much of Botticelli's work is lacking in clear documentation or surrounding information. This has left the opportunity for many questions around his work to remain and only be partially answered by art historians who have struggled to reliably confirm any of their own theories.

At first glance the unitiated will see a fairly simple composition of mother with child and some attractive folige there to complete the artwork. In reality, there are layers of symbolism in every corner which is highly characteristic of Botticelli's style.

This painting sits close to another full figure portrait of the Madonna in the Uffizi, namely Madonna in Glory. In total, there are around twenty Botticelli paintings devoted to this key religious figure. The arched structure of this painting ensures that it would perfectly fit the pre-agreed installation position. Many artists of around this time would have to shape their panels carefully to trace internal shapes of traditional buildings and interiors.

Fortitude has been compared on many occasions to this painting, with a clear similarity between composition, shape and style between the two. Gardens were used on several occasions by Botticelli in order to represent the virginity of Mary. Items to be found in the garden will also hold symbolic connections to the Christian faith.

Followers of Sandro Botticelli will be aware of the fine collection of his work which remains at the internationally-renowned art gallery of the Uffizi in Florence, Italy. This extraordinary venue spearheads what is left in Florence of the original sculptures, drawings and paintings that made the various periods of the Italian Renaissance so significant.