Sull’iconografia della Vergine armata di randello: storia ed evoluzione di una peculiare immagine di protezione mariana dal XIV secolo alla contemporaneità
On the Iconography of the Virgin Armed with a Baton in Italy: History and Evolution of a Peculiar Image of Marian Protection from the Fourteenth Century to the Present

Summary/Abstract: Around the 14th century, the reassuring and protective image of the Mother of God was enriched by an innovative iconography, largely due to the Augustinian Order’s influence. The new representation depicted the Madonna and Child, in various forms, armed to defend children from the Evil One. This portrayal evolved significantly over time, notably expanding the Virgin’s sphere of protection. Her guardianship extended beyond merely warding off the devil to encompass terrestrial enemies of the Faith that Christianity confronted.The paper aims to present some of the most significant iconographic examples of the armed Madonna in painting and sculpture in Italy. This particular iconography of the ‘Madonna del Soccorso’ will be examined in an excursus ranging from its earliest documented appearances in the 14th century through its manifestations in 21th-century, considering its modifications and cultural interpretations and reflections in contemporary society.

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