Madonna im Rosenhag

This painting is one of the principal works by the artist from Bologna. The motif and composition draw on reports of the vision experienced by Bridget of Sweden and are strongly influenced by Fra Filippo Lippi and Botticelli. The enclosed garden is a symbol of Mary's purity; the roses a reference to the biblical Song of Songs that extols love. The Christ Child is shown to be the San of God and the Redeemer through the gesture of the blessing and the apple. As Francia also worked as a goldsmith, he added the ward 'AURI FEX' after his signature.