The Madonna of the Cat (La Madonna del Gatto)
c. 1575, The National Gallery, London
An easel painting in a domestic setting of the Holy Family, a cosy setting of the Virgin Mary breastfeeding baby Jesus. John the Baptist a young boy, teasing the cat with a pet goldfinch. Mary's flushed cheeks highlighting the virgin's eternal tenderness. It is believed the painting was made for Count Antonio Brancaleoni, who lived near Perugia, Italy. |
| Perugia, Italy |
Symbolism
The tension between the goldfinch and bird symbolises the battle between good and evil of which only Jesus can save. Baby Jesus is watching his cousin teasing the cat.A goldfinch has a red head, symbolising a drop of blood from Jesus wearing his crown of thorns. Goldfinches are commonly kept and bred in captivity around the world because of their distinctive appearance and melodic song.
Other works of art which include this symbol is Madonna of the Goldfinch, painted (c. 1505-1506) by Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino and Madonna and Child by Cima da Conegliano.
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