Artwork
Coronation of the Virgin
Coronation of the Virgin is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1450 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The Coronation of the Virgin portrays the Virgin Mary being crowned by heavenly figures, symbolizing her role as Queen of Heaven.
The Coronation of the Virgin portrays the Virgin Mary being crowned by heavenly figures, symbolizing her role as Queen of Heaven. In the composition the Father, Christ, and Mary occupy central positions, reflecting a hierarchical celestial court. The work's iconography emphasizes Marian supremacy and the promise of salvation, with the crown signifying her divine authority.
As a 1450 religious painting in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the piece functions as a visual sermon on heavenly glory and the intercessory power of the Virgin, inviting contemplation of spiritual ascent.
History & Provenance
The painting known as the Coronation of the Virgin was created in 1450. It is attributed to an anonymous artist and falls within the genre of religious art. The work depicts the main subject of the Coronation of the Virgin, featuring figures such as God the Father, Christ, and Mary.
Currently, the piece is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, identified by the accession number 65.121. No further details regarding the original commission, specific patron, or the complete chain of ownership prior to its arrival at the museum are provided in the available records.
Context
The Coronation of the Virgin, dated to 1450 and classified as a religious painting, exemplifies 15th-century devotional art; its depiction of God the Father, Christ, and the Virgin reflects medieval hierarchical theology and the cult of Marian intercession. The work's attribution to an anonymous master, recorded in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection data, situates it within the broader corpus of panel paintings that blend naturalistic detail with symbolic iconography. Scholarship emphasizes its role in illustrating the theological hierarchy of the heavenly court and its significance in the development of devotional painting.
Overview
This painting, titled Coronation of the Virgin, presents a central composition of three figures. A bearded man, robed in red, stands prominently, flanked by two smaller, crowned individuals. The artwork is characterized by a rich palette, primarily featuring gold, red, and blue, with additional white and brown accents. The central figure's expression conveys a sense of calm solemnity.
Technique & Style
The composition arranges three figures in close proximity, creating a focused and intimate scene. The artist employs a vibrant color scheme dominated by gold, red, and blue hues, which are complemented by subtle white and brown touches. The central figure's bare chest and serene yet serious facial expression contribute to the painting's devotional tone, while the flowing robes of the side figures add a sense of movement and grace.
Artist & collection
Enthroned Virgin and Child
Saint Apostles (reverse: Our Lady of Sorrows). The right panel of the retable from Stary Żywiec
The Salting Diptych
Christ between the Virgin Mary and Saint John the Baptist
Adoration of the Magi
Saint Apostles (reverse: Christ – Man of Sorrows). The left panel of the retable from Stary Żywiec
Enthroned Virgin and Child
Shrine of Saint Anne and the Holy Kinship
Kneeling Virgin
The Lamentation
Enthroned Virgin- Coronation of the Virgin