The "Madonna del Parto" (Our Lady of the Parturition) in Monterchi  

The "Madonna del Parto" is one of the main art works by Piero della Francesca (1415-1492): it shows in a wonderful way a perfect armony among forms and colours.  

The painting was painted by the artist in 1459 inside the chapel of the Saint Mary in Momentana Church. At the beginning of the XX-th century the fresco was took off and restored.

The "Madonna del Parto" is represented pregnant, an unusual subject for the Italian iconography: the dress that Our Lady put on is a little open in order to underline her turgiduty, whereas her hand is on her womb as to protect the child.

Photo © Municipality of Monterchi

In the background there is a canopy that, according to the theological interpratation, would be the Chuch, whose curtain is held by two Angels painted as they are reflected in a mirror.

Whereas the Our Lady holding the Redeemer on her womb represents the tabernacle containing the Christ's body.