Who painted The Virgin in Glory?

The Virgin in Glory was painted by Abraham Bloemaert in 1608.

Where can I see The Virgin in Glory?

The Virgin in Glory is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Virgin in Glory?

The Virgin in Glory is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of The Virgin in Glory?

Museum-quality prints of The Virgin in Glory are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

The Virgin in Glory

Abraham Bloemaert , 1608

The Virgin in Glory is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist Abraham Bloemaert. It dates from 1608 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:in unknown hand, across bottom on mount: A. Bloemaert (underlined); lower right on mount: From the collection of Rd Cumberland; lower right on mount: T250

About this work

Overview

Abraham Bloemaert’s drawing The Virgin in Glory dates to 1608.

Abraham Bloemaert’s drawing The Virgin in Glory dates to 1608. Executed on blue paper with pen, brown ink, and a brown wash intensified by white highlights over black chalk, the work presents a luminous Virgin hovering above a gathering of figures. The composition combines celestial motifs, halo, wings, and surrounding angels, with a grounded group of worshippers, creating a visual contrast between the divine and the earthly.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure is the Virgin Mary, depicted with a radiant halo and outstretched hands, suggesting a benediction toward the assembled crowd below. The onlookers, some kneeling, others reaching upward, convey reverence and aspiration toward the heavenly realm. The surrounding clouds and diminutive angels reinforce the notion of a celestial intercession, emphasizing themes of devotion and the bridge between the mortal and the divine.

Technique & Style

Bloemaert employed a combination of pen work and brown ink wash on blue paper, using white highlights to accentuate light against the darker background. The interplay of black chalk and delicate hatching builds volume and shadow, while the blue substrate enhances the luminous effect of the white and brown tones. This approach marks a shift from his earlier Haarlem Mannerist tendencies toward a more dynamic, Baroque sensibility.

History & Provenance

Created during Bloemaert’s transitional period, the drawing reflects his movement toward Baroque aesthetics while he remained primarily known for history paintings and landscapes. Although the piece is a drawing rather than a painted work, it illustrates his role as an educator, influencing younger Utrecht artists, including members of the Caravaggisti. The work’s provenance traces back to Bloemaert’s studio, where it served both as a study and a model for his pupils.