Leonardo da Vinci's "The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne" (c. 1503-1519) depicts the Virgin Mary, her mother Saint Anne, and the infant Jesus in a pyramidal composition, showcasing Leonardo's mastery of sfumato and psychological depth.

Leonardo da Vinci's "The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne" is a complex composition that explores themes of motherhood, divinity, and familial connection. Begun around 1503 and worked on until possibly 1519, it depicts the Virgin Mary seated on the lap of her mother, Saint Anne, as she reaches out to the infant Jesus, who plays with a lamb. The figures are set within a rocky, atmospheric that recedes into the distance, typical of Leonardo's sfumato technique. The pyramidal arrangement of the figures, with Anne at the apex, creates a sense of stability and balance. Mary's downward gaze and gentle touch convey a sense of maternal love and concern, while Anne's serene expression suggests a quiet wisdom. The lamb, a symbol of Christ's future sacrifice, adds a layer of theological meaning to the scene. The painting is noted for its subtle gradations of light and shadow, which create a sense of depth and volume, and for the psychological complexity of its figures. The work remains in the collection of the Louvre Museum, Paris.