Virgin of the Milk, 16th century

Virgin Nursing the Christ Child, known as the “Virgin of the Milk”
European School, probably Spanish or Italian, 16th century, in the taste of the late Renaissance.

Oil on ancient wood panel, assembled from two planks, with original wooden keys on the reverse.

This moving representation of the Virgin Mary nursing the Christ Child belongs to the traditional iconography of the *Virgo Lactans*, a symbol of maternal tenderness and divine protection.

The inclined face of the Madonna, with a meditative and gentle gaze, contrasts with the lively expression of the Child turned toward the viewer.

The composition is distinguished by the sobriety of the dark background, which highlights the delicate flesh tones and luminous draperies.
The treatment of the hands, faces, and transparencies reveals a Renaissance influence still imbued with medieval spirituality.

The warm palette, with brown tones, deep reds, and pearly whites, reinforces the intimacy of the scene.

The panel shows beautiful natural aging, with a network of craquelure, wear, and old restorations consistent with its period.
The old reverse with visible wooden reinforcement system attests to a traditional construction.

A work of domestic devotion or private chapel use, this Virgin of the Milk constitutes a rare and decorative testimony to 16th century religious painting.