This website presents our knowledge and research on this important aspect of the Royal Collection. As of April 2026 it will not be regularly updated and new research on this topic will sit within the main website.

Holy Families & Madonna and Child

Holy Families & Madonna and Child

The Virgin adoring the Christ Child ['Madonna in the Rose Bower']

c.1780-1820

Engraving with etching | RCIN 851163

A print after a painting by Francesco Francia (c.1500) currently in the Alte Pinakothek, Munich. The painting was believed to be by Raphael and, according to Passavant (1860), it was housed in the collection of Baron St. Saphorin, Vienna. Proof with some lettering.

The print shows the full-length Virgin, with her arms crossed on her breast, adoring the blessing Christ Child, who lies on the grass before her at right; the figures are set before a trellis of roses.
  • Added to the Prince Consort's Raphael Collection (c.1853-76)