Epifania

Epifania (English: Epiphany) is a cartoon or full-scale drawing in black chalk by Michelangelo, produced in Rome around 1550–1553.

The composition shows the Virgin Mary, with the Christ child sitting between her legs.

Michelangelo repeatedly changed the composition and its forms, as is apparent in the cartoon's alterations.

The composition was originally thought to be of the Three Kings, which may be the reason for the title, but is now understood as referring to Christ's siblings mentioned in the Gospels (explained by Saint Epiphanias—another possible source for the title—as Joseph's sons by a previous marriage, and hence Mary's stepsons, leaving their marriage unconsummated—hence her pushing Joseph away—and Mary forever a virgin).

[1] Parliament voted £25,000 to purchase the rest of his collection for the museum two years later (equivalent to £3,647,523 in 2023).

Epifania by Ascanio Condivi, Casa Buonarroti , Florence