Artwork
The Assumption of the Virgin with Saints Michael and Benedict
The Assumption of the Virgin with Saints Michael and Benedict is an unspecified painting by the Early Renaissance artist Luca Signorelli. It dates from 1497 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The imagery combines the celestial event of the Assumption with the protective presence of the saints, reinforcing themes of spiritual victory and intercession.
The painting depicts the Assumption of Mary, a central event in Christian theology where the Virgin Mary is taken bodily into heaven. The composition features Mary ascending amidst angels, flanked by the saints Michael and Benedict. Saint Michael is identified by his traditional role as a combatant against evil, often shown with a devil, while Saint Benedict represents monastic tradition.
As a religious work created in 1497, the piece serves as a visual narrative of salvation and divine elevation. The inclusion of specific saints alongside the Virgin suggests a devotional purpose, likely intended to honor these figures while celebrating the triumph of the soul over earthly existence. The imagery combines the celestial event of the Assumption with the protective presence of the saints, reinforcing themes of spiritual victory and intercession.
History & Provenance
The Assumption of the Virgin with Saints Michael and Benedict is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Created by Luca Signorelli in 1497, this religious painting depicts the Assumption of Mary flanked by Saints Michael and Benedict. The work measures 170.8 cm in height and 131.4 cm in width.
While the provided sources confirm its current location and physical dimensions, they do not list a specific inventory or accession number, nor do they document any past or future exhibition history for the piece.
Overview
This painting, titled The Assumption of the Virgin with Saints Michael and Benedict, depicts a central moment in Christian theology. The composition features the Virgin Mary, elevated and surrounded by a celestial choir, flanked by two significant saints. It serves as a visual narrative of Mary's bodily ascent into heaven, a key doctrine in certain Christian traditions.
Technique & Style
The artist employs various techniques to enhance the painting's spiritual impact. The Virgin's throne emits a soft luminescence, drawing the viewer's eye to her central figure. Details such as the shiny gold elements on Saint Michael's armor demonstrate attention to material texture.
Furthermore, the angelic figures exhibit a notable three-dimensionality in their facial rendering, contributing to a sense of depth and presence within the celestial realm.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Luca Signorelli (c. 1441/1445 – 16 October 1523) was an Italian Renaissance painter from Cortona, in Tuscany, who was noted in particular for his ability as a draftsman and his use of foreshortening. His massive frescos…
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