Assumption of the Virgin
1604
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
This painting shows the Virgin Mary surrounded by angels, rising to heaven. She's dressed in a flowing robe, with her arms outstretched and a halo around her head. The angels are depicted in various poses, some with their wings spread wide, others with their hands clasped in prayer. The painting is done in a style that emphasizes light and shadow, with the Virgin and angels set against a dark background. The overall effect is one of movement and energy, as if the Virgin is being lifted up to heaven by the angels. The use of light and shadow in this painting is reminiscent of the technique of chiaroscuro, which was popular during the Baroque period.
