I have to share this pear....
Today we (Mom and I) visited a univesity art gallery and viewed etchings and woodcuts by Albrect Durer and Rembrant. This illutration by Albrect Durer, done in 1511,
is called "Virgin and Child with Pear". In the middle ages, everything in the natural world came to have symbolism for Christianity...the common person would be familiar with most of these symbols...even as the Renaissance and Age of Enlightenment were approaching.
The pear (which Mary is holding in her right hand) symbolised Christ's love for humanity. The small photo shows the wonderful range of value which makes the Virgin's clothing almost shimmer....the larger photo shows the pear in Mary's right hand.
