Assumption of the Virgin 2 by Pierre Paul Rubens

An essential masterpiece of Baroque religious painting, this monumental altarpiece depicts the celestial triumph of the Mother of Christ. The master Pierre Paul Rubens portrays in “L’Assomption de la Vierge” the glorious elevation of Mary supported by angelic hosts. The artwork is characterized by an irresistible upward dynamic and a theatricality typical of grand ecclesiastical decorations.:::::The Virgin Mary ascends majestically toward heaven, wearing a blue dress and a shimmering golden skirt. She is carried by a cloud of joyful putti and surrounded by angels bearing flower wreaths and palm fronds. At the bottom of the painting, the apostles and holy women are gathered around the open marble tomb. A man dressed in red raises his arms to the sky in astonishment while a woman kneeling in the foreground touches the abandoned white shroud. Faces turned toward the clouds express wonder and deep faith. The composition harmoniously balances the dark earthly realm with the dazzling light of the heavenly sphere.:::::The genius of Pierre Paul Rubens lies in his command of pyramidal composition and vibrant brushwork. His exceptional rendering of movement and fabrics bestows dramatic intensity and striking realism upon the scene.