The Virgin Surrounded by Many Angels

1518

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

Dominant colour

The Virgin Surrounded by Many Angels is a 1518 by Albrecht Dürer, a Renaissance work, held at Cleveland Museum of Art.

Who painted this?: Albrecht Dürer
When & what style?: 1518 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?: Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

You see the Virgin Mary surrounded by many angels in this painting. The scene is lively, with angels and cherubs celebrating with music and gifts. This woodcut is special because it shows the Coronation of the Virgin, an important event in Christian prayers. Check out the work of artist Albrecht Dürer to learn more about his style and other creations.

The story of this work

Overview

In this lively woodcut, Dürer evokes the Coronation of the Virgin, the last event in the cycle of prayers known as the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary. She is about to be crowned Regina caeli, the Queen of Heaven, as angels and cherubs celebrate with gifts, music-making, and merriment. Dürer’s shallow use of space and symmetrical arrangement draw attention to the Madonna’s gaze, a fixed look that conveys both her attentiveness and compassion for those who are devoted to her.

Read the full account in the museum source.