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The Holy Virgins Greeted by Christ as They Enter the Gates of Paradise by Simon Marmion

Simon Marmion · 1467-01-01

Simon Marmion's 'The Holy Virgins Greeted by Christ as They Enter the Gates of Paradise' (c. 1467) shows the moment souls enter heaven. This painting captures a key theological moment from the Northern Renaissance with vibrant detail.

Look at Christ's welcoming gesture and the hopeful anticipation of the holy virgins reaching for Him. Notice the multitude of souls in white robes and the announcing trumpeters, all approaching the magnificent archway of Paradise.

Painted in tempera by Marmion, a master of both panel paintings and illuminated manuscripts in the Duchy of Burgundy, this work reflects the religious devotion of the 15th century. The luminous, matte finish is characteristic of his technique.

It's a scene of ultimate acceptance and divine welcome, rendered with quiet triumph.

Details

He holds His hand out in welcome.
He holds His hand out in welcome.
The souls reach for His divine grace.
The souls reach for His divine grace.
Angels announce their arrival with trumpets.
Angels announce their arrival with trumpets.
This nun's path is also included.
This nun's path is also included.
The multitude of figures emphasizes the abundance of souls welcomed into paradise.
The multitude of figures emphasizes the abundance of souls welcomed into paradise.
Transcript

He holds His hand out in welcome. The souls reach for His divine grace. A crowd of virgins waits to enter. Angels announce their arrival with trumpets. This nun's path is also included. The archway leads to Paradise itself. This painter, Simon Marmion, lived in 1467. He painted tempera for a luminous matte finish.