Artwork

Dormancy of the Virgin

Dormancy of the Virgin, by Unknown, oil, 1730
Dormancy of the Virgin, by Unknown, oil, 1730

Dormancy of the Virgin is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1730 and is held in the collection of the Lima Art Museum. The work presents the Virgin Mary reclining on a bed within an intimate interior.

About this work

Overview

The work presents the Virgin Mary reclining on a bed within an intimate interior. She is clothed in a pink garment trimmed with gold thread, while surrounding figures are arrayed in vivid red, green and blue robes. A subdued illumination, emanating from an unseen source above, suffuses the space with a warm glow.

Subject & Meaning

Central to the composition is the Virgin in a state of repose, suggesting a moment of contemplation or awaiting. The presence of multiple attendants, each rendered in distinct colors, underscores the communal reverence surrounding the figure, emphasizing themes of devotion and guardianship.

Technique & Style

The painter employs chiaroscuro, juxtaposing deep shadows with illuminated areas to model forms and generate spatial depth. This contrast accentuates the Virgin’s form and the surrounding drapery, creating a three‑dimensional effect that guides the eye toward the central figure.

Context

Executed in oil on canvas, the painting aligns with Baroque sensibilities that favored dramatic lighting and rich coloration. The palette’s saturated reds, greens and blues, together with the gold‑embroidered pink robe, reflect contemporary tastes for opulent detail within religious narratives.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Lima Art Museum

Museum

Lima Art Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Lima Art Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.