© Jeannette D’Souza 2025
Welcome back to this Christmas’ edition of my blog- Mary and the Infant Baby Jesus!
Artists beyond centuries have used their inner most beliefs with faithfilled interpretations to render such tender emotions of the relationship between Mother Mary and her baby the Infant Jezu.
A freshness in the approach was to bring together some of these unusual paintings within rare settings for this blog, with many paintings which would have formerly been from private collectors.
I selected some endearingly close domestic moments between a mother and her baby who would have shared a deep connection in their earthly bond!
It was moving to bring to mind that baby Jesus lived amongst us as a human, with the same mortal needs, needing the love of his mother and constant tending after…this is the essence of the blog’s message- of Love and the Joy of giving this Christmas!
It was spellbinding to see so many late medieval and renaissance religious paintings of the Virgin and Infant Jesus, hence I chose to focus on the warmth and tenderness and the deeply cherished cords of love between Mother Mary and her baby, the Infant Jesus!
Therefore my blog escapes the usual aesthetic narrations and tries to keep a prayerful objective on their earthly bond of belonging and oneness.
I really hope you enjoy this blog and wishing you all a truly blessed and peaceful Christmas 2025!
My sincere thanks to The National Gallery of London for letting me explore their exquisite collection and enabling me to express the spiritual side of art through faith. Images have been resized or focussed on certain aspects in keeping with the mood of the blog.
Stepping into the gallery I was surprised to see the much awaited Wilton Diptych and this visit proved all the more enthralling…this wonderful late medieval painting was displayed right by the entrance.
Although the complete diptych prominently asserts Richard Il’s ownership with Richard’s own royal arms and his patronage offered, yet I could not help but interpret this gorgeous artwork in a personal way by focussing only on the right side of the diptych.
Painted in tempera and inlaid in gold leaf, the spiritual section is painted mainly in Lapiz lazuli, you can find the complete diptych at the end of this blog.
The Wilton Diptych about 1395-9- English or French (?) Egg tempera on wood( only the right part of the diptych)
I was drawn toward the spiritual focal point of this exquisite artwork, and it evoked a realisation … the gift made by a mother, of her only son Jesus to all, the unconditional nature of giving freely.
In this visionary piece the rich blues speak of Christ’s two natures – both God and man.
As Baby Jesus gently confers his blessings, Mary watches silently and holds her baby’s foot forward for veneration.
It reminded me of Christmas Eve masses when we visit the nativity grotto and kiss the little statue of baby Jesus lying in the manger!
Prayerchair.org ( my thanks to Prayerchair.org for their daily reflections- below is one very meaningful to this blog)
There are over 300 prophetic references to Jesus in the Old Testament that He fulfilled them in the New testament.
Some key references include ; His Birth in Bethlehem Micah 5:2 Mathew5:1. Born of a VirginIsaiah 7:14 Mathew1:22-23. The “Suffering Servant“Isaiah 53 Mathew27 Acts 8:32-35. Pierced hands and feet Psalm22:16 John19:34. Betrayed for 30 pieces of silver Zechariah 11:12 Mathew26:15 No bones broken Psalm34:20 John 19:33-36.
A famous mathematician, Peter Stoner, calculated that the probability of one person fulfilling just 8 of these prophecies is 1 in 100 quadrillion( 17 zeros) and the probability of fulfilling 48 prophecies contains 157 zeros after the number, or in other words- there’s no coincidence! Praise God today that Jesus is alive and still changing lives just as He did 2000 years ago. May the eternal hope, joy and peace we have in Jesus fill you to overflowing this Christmas!
My sincere thanks to Prayerchair.org
The Adoration of the Shepherds about 1640- The Le Nain Brothers Antoine (about 1600-48), Louis (about 1603-48), Mathieu (about 1607-77, we do not know which of the three Le Nain brothers painted this picture).
A wonderful oil on canvas scene of the shepherds paying homage to baby Jesus, it might have been made for private devotion in a wealthy home. I chose to start my reflections from this painting onwards as we conclude our advent journey into Christmas!
Infant Jesus lies in a manger while the Virgin Mary and St Joseph dote on him with complete devotion, the angels by the manger adore Christ! On closeup the eyes of baby Jesus are cast onto his mother who is reverently watchful over him.
Reflection– As we reflect on the scene of the nativity, may we find love and joy through our focus on our Lord this holy season, and at his birth be filled with abundant jubilation!
Mother Mary pray for our needs and watch over us.
Gloria! In excelsis Deo!
The Virgin and Child in an Interior before 1432 – Workshop of Robert Campin, possibly Jacques Daret 1378/9-1444. Born 1401-1403, died about 1468
A mother prepares to bathe her child, the fire is lit, the basin of water close by with towels ready in basket. The Virgin tenderly embraces her infant Christ before bathing him.
This affectionate scene evokes emotions, it is adorable to see the human connection between parent and child, of love and devotion that transforms here from celestial to earthly and which lasts together over a lifetime….
Reflection– May this soft embrace of Mother Mary and Jesus remind us of the tender love that our God holds for us, of our mother Mary who is waiting to offer us hugs of love whenever we need them.
The Virgin and Child (‘The Madonna with the Iris‘) about 1500-10- Workshop of Albrecht Dürer with Hans Baldung Grien 1471-1528, 1484/5-1545
This breathtaking painting from the late medieval period represents Mother Mary’s purity, her undivided love and her devotion to the Christ child. This may have been an altarpiece, the beautiful enclosed garden setting represents the Virgin Mary’s purity and the rich garment colours repressing sacrifice combine to offer a magnificent aura, sustaining and reflective.
A mother feels for the needs of her baby…, the Virgin Mary nourishes her child while holding him close to her heart. The swaddling clothes she wraps gently around him, to keep him warm and secure while bestowing her soft adorable gaze over him.
Reflections– May this season of light open wide our hearts and minds towards Jesus and Mary, may we realise the full love of God in our hearts this Christmas!
The Virgin and Child with an Angel; 1496-1500 (central panel)- Pietro Perugino living 1469; died 1523
This central panel shows the Virgin adoring the Christ Child who is gently supported by an angel.
The rich reds and blues from the garments symbolise sacrifice and devotion, the connection between God and humans. Mother Mary has her eyes fixed on her vulnerable baby who reciprocates her tender-heartedness , the bare nature of little vulnerable Jesus reminds the Mother of her precious son’s sacrifice, the reason for his birth…
Reflection– we pray for peace, peace inwards and outwards, that the devotion like that of our dear Mother may invoke in us a sense of completeness in Christ!
Virgin and Child perhaps about 1475- Hans Memling active 1465; died 1494
The cloth-of-honour (painted by Memling) behind the Virgin and the garment embroidery present minute strokes of lead-tin yellow paint that convey the effects of gold threads, thus offering Mary and baby Jesus a devotional tribute!
This holy painting focusses on the subject of devotion through Mother Mary and Infant Jezu. It has a calming and reflective quality, evoking a mood of spiritual awareness as if to say “Do not fear, be still and know that I am God”
Reflection– May this New Year 2026 bring all families together in faith, may the light of baby Jesus nurture and strengthen us on our journey in faith and may his peace surround us always!
The Virgin and Child before a Firescreen about 1440- Follower of Robert Campin 1378/9-1444
A grand portrayal of a stately 15th century home that overlooks a bustling wealthy town. The intricate embroidery details, luxurious effects from garments, the carved details on cabinet to the right are all striking, also the wicker behind Mary is cleverly stationed to offer a halo effect.
In this painting the domestic meets the mystical, the oneness of earth and heaven are presented!
The Virgin mother breastfeeds her infant Son who is aware of the chalice of salvation close by, he pauses from feeding to bestow us his loving gaze.
Reflection– may our eyes carry the bountiful love of God and project kindness and warmth to those that are in need of it, may we provide words of comfort and upliftment to troubled hearts.
The Virgin and Child about 1505 – Giovanni Battista Cima da Conegliano about 1459/60-about 1517/18
Little baby Jesus stands confidently on the Virgin mother’s lap while she delicately supports him. A symbolical painting that speaks of Christ’s future life. Giovanni Battista has signed his name on the parapet in the foreground.
Baby Jesus grasps a bird in his left hand and stands committed which alludes to his future surrendering, Passion and crucifixion. Mary is seated on a marble bench which may symbolise the altar and Christ’s tomb. The backdrop suggests old ruins and newly laden edifices which may symbolise the Old Testament, and the New Testament where Christ is the sure foundation. The deer grazing in the distant right background symbolises the soul’s yearning for God through the centuries as the people of God await the Saviour.
The Virgin Mary ponders deeply, she holds her Baby close with tenderness as he stands affirming the truth!
Reflection– Lord Jesus, your coming to earth gave us eternal life, thank you! You know all our weaknesses and yet accept us just the way we are. During this Christmas season teach us to grow more deeply in your love towards others✨🩵✨
The Madonna of the Pinks (‘La Madonna dei Garofani) about 1506-7 – Raphael 1483-1520
Such an exquisite painting defined with grace and sublime beauty!
This wonderful painting known as ’The Madonna of the Pinks’ shows the Virgin Mary and Infant Jesus exchanging carnations( also known as the Pinks hence the name). These flowers were symbols of Christ’s Passion, but also of secular marriage or betrothal. They refer to Christ’s sacrifice as well as to the Virgin’s role as his mystical bride.
The unparalleled love and dedication emanating through the gestures are immaculate, they depict the Virgin and infant Jesus’ bonding of mind, heart and soul… earthly and heavenly!
Reflection – May the spirit of Christmas resonate the gifts of advent- hope, joy, peace and love of God in our lives and resonate through the coming year 2026!
Adoration of the Kings about 1515 – Gerard David active 1484; died 1523
This painting was a part of an altarpiece together with a counterpart of the Lamentation.
Within the old ruins of a castle the viewer is drawn onto a fortified city, a symbolical imagery of the humble birth of Christ. The Virgin Mary is seated onto a stony manger which foreshadows Christ’s tomb while she presents baby Jesus to the three Magi. St Joseph is seen descending stairs to the left and watching the scene quietly.
The three Magi/Kings Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar bring in their symbolic gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh. There are several figures by the doorway behind king Balthasar who represent the universal Christian Church.
Reflection – the birth of our Lord Jesus fulfilled many prophesies and yet the visit of the Magi might have caused a wonderment in the hearts of St Joseph and the Virgin Mary.
May this Christmas bring back those who lack faith, in wonderment of your Majesty, and strengthen those who need your assurance O Lord.
The Rest on the Flight into Egypt 1620 – Pieter Lastman 1583-1633
This painting depicts the holy family when they were forced to flee to Egypt, here the holy family rest from weary travelling. Lastman was the leading biblical painter in Amsterdam, and Rembrandt studied with him when he arrived in 1624. The wholistic narration and natural depiction within a bountiful landscape are breathtaking. To the right corner the holy family’s belongings of water, hat and flight bag draw a homely atmosphere into the wilderness.
St Joseph and the Virgin Mary look tenderly at their son Jesus, St Joseph presents an apple to his baby and Mary in locked palms secures her baby affectionately towards him. Little infant Jesus looks towards us a little startled while clutching his mother’s shawl. Nearby a refreshing waterfall glows symbolically amid a verdant forest gorge.
Reflection– The heavens rejoiced at Christ’s birth and the angels sang ceaselessly. May we anticipate this joy as we await Your coming…, with songs of thanksgiving we praise you O Lord, Come Lord Jesus, come, come and fill us O Living Springs of Life!
The Virgin and Child Embracing 1660-85 – Sassoferrato 1609-1685
A gorgeous piece of art and most probably intended for a domestic setting. It echoes works by earlier artists like Raphael (1483-1520) and Perugino (living 1469; died 1523), whose work Sassaferrato admired and even copied.
The most adorable Jesus and Mary share an affectionate moment, a dedicated earthly and heavenly embrace, and symbolically it represents their knowledge of Christ’s future suffering. St Joseph is seen by the doorway returning home.
I found this painting exceptionally emotive and distinctly expressed with fond devotion. It speaks of parental love and bonding, of togetherness and understanding….
Reflection – may the little baby Jesus bless all families in the world that need a word of comfort, love and unity this festive season. May the star that guided all to the manger, guide hearts of the lost and restore the broken, to bring back Christ’s love and peace among families.
The Madonna of the Basket about 1524- Correggio active 1494; died 1534
A delightful painting abounding in natural expressions which make this a warm scene, such images were often commissioned for veneration within small chapels in private homes. Correggio, who worked mostly in Parma, created an imagery of exceptional tenderness, emphasising the loving human bond between mother and son.
Saint Joseph works in the background as the Virgin Mary smiles down at her baby, the fingers of her left hand just closing over his tiny hand. She sets aside her sewing in a basket and attempts to dress the wriggling Baby Jesus on her knee.
Reflection – through all the busy activities around Christmas may we find the time to spend with our loved ones, especially those who are in most need of it.
The Holy Family about 1613-15 – Bartolomeo Schedoni 1578-1615
Such a sublime family portrait of the holy family by Schedoni! He engages the viewer with devotion toward the holy family, the gentle expressions of tenderness and family bonding are warmly depicted. This painting belonged to Schedoni’s wife.
The little infant Jesus is supported on his mother’s lap, his curly hair and cuddly form is adorable as he reaches for a Bible verse. Possibly he foresees his passion or he may be pointing out to scriptures being fulfilled…. St Joseph who was increasingly venerated in the 17th century, supports the holy book’s cover.
Reflection – there are moments in life that people miss, the warm moments filled with family togetherness, of caring people that offer unconditional love…, we pray for those that miss these moments and for others who have lost hope of family warmth.
The Holy Family with the Infant Saint John the Baptist about 1600 – Annibale Carracci 1560-1609.
Known as the ‘Montalto Madonna’ after its patron, Cardinal Alessandro Peretti Montalto (1571-1623), this painting became one of the artist’s most copied images of devotion. This lively family scene is uplifting and engaging.
Our eyes are drawn to the Virgin Mary who delightfully holds the Christ Child while she tries to look towards St John the Baptist, the garments of Mary are visually captivating. St Joseph tries to draw Baby Jesus’ attention to a book. Baby Jesus playfully holds a fruit, draped in white he holds the focal core, he tightly hugs in close bonding towards his mother, reluctant to leave her…
Baby Jesus’ cousin, St John the Baptist gently looks at this engaging scene.
Reflection – May your love be upon us O Lord this holy season and follow into the new years as we place all our hope and trust in You.
The Garvagh Madonna about 1510-11 – Raphael 1483-1520
The painting takes its name from Lord Garvagh, in whose collection this painting was during the early 19th century. The painting also known as the Aldobrandini Madonna is often admired for its graceful soft expressions and its devotional aspect. The artist Raphael creates a symbolical narration within the pyramidal composition, combining the gestures and gazes of the Virgin Mary, Baby Jesus and the young child St John the Baptist. The cool tones and suffused light are typical of Raphael’s work following his arrival in Rome in 1508.
Baby Jesus accepts a carnation from St John the Baptist as a representation of accepting his Passion and death while St John is clad with camel’s skin referring to the ‘voice in the wilderness’ , he holds a little cross representing the passion again. The Virgin Mary submits gracefully to the scene of symbolic self offering. The cool tones in the backdrop present a peaceful aura.
Reflection – this Christmas we pray for all the bereaved, may the birth of Christ comfort and console them, may communities help support and strengthen the weak and lonely.
The Madonna and Child, St Elizabeth and St John the Baptist about 1513 – Andrea del Sarto (1486-1530)
Andrea del Sarto was popular for his portrayal of the Virgin and Child and was the leading artist in Florence in the early 16th century. In this painting he makes an everyday scene uplifting, capturing the essence of family gatherings and the joy they bring. The giggling Christ Child lightens the mood while St John the Baptist is inspired and watches his cousin adorably. The Virgin Mary and St Elizabeth are drawn in relaxed conversation making the scene a leisurely one.
Reflection– May the laughter of the Christ child cheer and uplift all, especially those who are in need of it this Christmas, May we inspire one another to be instruments of the joy of God!
The Virgin and Child probably 1480-90- Giovanni Bellini about 1435-1516
In this poignant work of art by Bellini, the expressions and the invoking nature of the painting draw the faithful in supplication. Possibly meant for a small private chapel the painting is reflective and symbolic. The pomegranate that is held by Christ Child was added at a later stage, requiring changes to the hands and arms of the figures.
The Virgin Mary and Infant Jesus hold a pomegranate, such a touching narration that is symbolic of Christ’s Passion and Resurrection. It represents a mother and son’s unity in living through the joys and sufferings of life together, in carrying their crosses in unison holding together in faith and thus fulfilling their purpose.
And so…, a mother and child’s deep earthly bond and heavenly love stay forever in this world, reminding us of their sacrifice, bringing us all Christians across the world in unison to rejoice in thankfulness for their giving.
Thank you Jesus for coming down to save us all!🙏🏼
Reflection – Baby Jesus, You came to our world to wipe away every tear and sin of the world, may we find the deeper faith to put every need in your hands as we focus on Your manger this Christmas.
The San Pier Maggiore Altarplece – Jacopo di Cione and workshop : Niccolò di Pietro Gerini (design, 1370) and Jacopo di Cione (execution, c. 1370-71 ; died 1398-1400
From the onset of the blog our focal point was on the relationship and love between the Virgin Mary and her beloved son little infant Jesus. As we reach the end of this blog I wanted to emphasise on the honour bestowed by Christ upon the Virgin Mary as ‘Queen of Heaven’!
In this beautiful painting (cropped from its original size) Christ is depicted crowning his mother- Mary ‘Queen of Heaven”. The love of a mother is incomparable and given altruistically as the child grows. Mary must have gone through joys and sorrows, pain and rejoicing as a mother, and as the years went by Jesus grew into a young man, and her heart must have ached to see Jesus leave home to start his mission.
Even further during the passion of our Lord, Mary would have borne the sword piercing her heart as she watched Jesus go through his passion and crucifixion.
The victory of the Resurrection of Christ brought forth eternal life to all and Mary witnessed this awesome resurrection… the fulfilment of sacred scriptures. And as Jesus ascended into heaven she would have felt the completeness of joy in accompanying our Saviour through it all, and then awaiting her union with him finally in heaven!
She attained the honour through her acceptance of the ‘Word made Flesh’!
And at the end was crowned the “Queen of Heaven”
Reflection– May the rejoicing at the birth of our Lord Jesus this Christmas bring us in unison with the joyful ‘Hope’ for eternal life. May ‘Peace’ reign within our families, communities and the world, may ‘Joy’ permeate our souls to offer ‘Love’ unconditionally to one another this Christmas!
Thank you 🙏
Wishing you all a very Joyful season of Christmas and a blessed and Happy New year 2026!✨💫🎄🌟🎄💫✨
25/12/2025
The Wilton Diptych about 1395-9
Egg tempera on wood- English or French (?)
Bought with a special grant and contributions from Samuel Courtauld, Viscount Rothermere,
C.T. Stoop and the Art Fund, 1929
NG4451
The exterior of the diptych prominently asserts Richard Il’s ownership.
On the left, a shield displays the imagined heraldry of Saint Edward the Confessor, quartered with Richard’s own royal arms.
Opposite, the white hart used by the king as his personal emblem (a pun on his name, ‘Rich-hart’) rests on a bed of flowers. The gold ground is delicately stippled, enlivening its antlers and the crown around its neck.
The flowers relate to the devices used by Richard’s first and second wives: the rosemary and fern of Anne of Bohemia (1366-1394) and the irises and pimpernels of Isabelle of France (1389-1409).
© Jeannette D’Souza
