Madonna and Saints Adoring the Christ Child

Known for his graceful figures, Perugino, the leading Umbrian painter of his day, was Raphael's principal master. Using harmonious jewel-like tones, the artist depicted the Virgin flanked by St. John the Evangelist and an unidentified female saint, perhaps Mary Magdalene. The inscription on the frame, referring to the Christ Child, is from Psalm 45: Fairer in beauty are you than the sons of men; grace is poured out upon thy lips; thus God has blessed you forever.