The Ascension

The Ascension

Schelte Bolswert

1650

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This print shows a dramatic scene in the sky. A robed figure with long hair floats upward, arms outstretched, as if rising. Below, a group of people—some standing, some kneeling—look up with surprised or awed expressions. One winged figure hovers nearby, pointing toward the rising man. The background swirls with clouds and light, making everything feel intense and alive. The artist used deep shadows and strong contrasts to make the figures stand out. Notice how the light seems to glow around the rising figure, while the crowd below stays darker. This effect draws your eye right to the center of the action. If you like this style, look up chiaroscuro next.

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