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Martin Schongauer

Christ Blessing the Virgin

c. 1476
Engraving on paper
16 × 15.3 cm (6.3 × 6 in)

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In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

This tender interaction between Christ and his mother takes place in a heavenly arbor after the Resurrection. Mary and a trio of angels bow their heads and elegantly pray in response to Christ’s blessing gesture. Although he has assumed the crown of heaven and holds the orb of the earth, Christ’s bare feet peep out from under his robes, hinting at his continuing humility.

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