Download Image of Antonello da Messina - The Virgin Mary Reading - Walters 37433. Free for commercial use, no attribution required. In this devotional panel, the Virgin Mary is depicted reading. Her status as the Queen of Heaven is emphasized by the golden crown-studded with jewels and pearls and adorned with red and white roses-held by the angels. Attached to the Virgin's mantle is a small pendant cross from which pearls are suspended. Antonello's preference for geometric shapes is characteristic of the early Italian Renaissance. From his study of contemporary Flemish painting, the artist had learned about the use of oil glazes. The technique permitted him to create unprecedented rich details with textures that reflected light in different ways. This is particularly visible in the crown.. Dated: 1460. Topics: artwork, 1460 s paintings in the united states, italian renaissance paintings in the walters art museum, madonnas by antonello da messina, paintings in the walters art museum, paintings of virgin mary with pearls, paintings of angels in the united states, reading in art, virgin mary crowned by angels, virgin mary reading, walters art museum, messina, italy