The Assumption of the Virgin
1640
oil
From the collection of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
1640
oil
From the collection of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
The painting shows the Virgin Mary being lifted up to heaven by angels. She is dressed in white and blue robes and has her hands together in prayer. The angels are holding her up and looking up at her with adoration. There are also other figures in the painting, including a group of people on the ground who are looking up at the Virgin in awe. The painting is done in a style that emphasizes light and shadow, with the Virgin and the angels being highlighted against a darker background. The overall effect is one of movement and energy, as if the Virgin is being swept up to heaven. The use of light and shadow in this painting is reminiscent of the technique of chiaroscuro, which was popular in the 17th century.