The Discovery of Master of Monte Oliveto’s Madonna and Child with Two Angels

Master of Monte Oliveto – “Madonna and Child with Two Angels”, c. 1315. Wood, tempera, gold. 57.5 x 40.3 cm.

We acquired this painting at a London auction in 2022, where it was attributed as a work in the manner of the Master of Monte Oliveto. However, research by Professor Gaudenz Freuler – whom we gratefully acknowledge for his assistance in the attribution – confirmed that the painting was executed by the Master of Monte Oliveto himself, an artist active in Siena between 1300 and 1330. We also undertook a careful restoration of the painting. The work holds significant artistic value, as it is one of the earliest surviving pieces by the master, likely painted during the lifetime of Duccio di Buoninsegna.