Madonna del Bordone

The Madonna del Bordone is a mesmerizing panel painting by the Italian artist Coppo di Marcovaldo, proudly displayed in the church of Santa Maria dei Servi in Siena, Italy. Created in 1261, this work is the only verified piece by Coppo. He painted it shortly after being captured during the Battle of Montaperti in 1260, where Siena claimed victory over Florence. Coppo earned his freedom by creating this exquisite painting.

In the artwork, the Madonna is gracefully seated on a throne, her head adorned with a halo. She is flanked by two small angels and holds the blessing Child, who has a halo embellished with a jeweled cross. The Child holds the Book of the Law in his left hand. Interestingly, X-ray analyses reveal that the heads in the painting were added the following year by a local artist influenced by Duccio di Buoninsegna, deviating from Coppo's original Byzantine style.

Unlike the more abstract works of his contemporaries, such as Margaritone d'Arezzo, Coppo's painting of the Madonna and Child exudes a tender, humanizing touch. The Child's affectionate gaze towards his mother may symbolize his love for the Catholic Church, represented by the Madonna. The figures' posture aligns with traditional Byzantine depictions, adding a layer of historical richness to this remarkable piece.