The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a painting by Peter Paul Rubens, painted in 1626 as an altarpiece for the high altar of the Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp, Antwerp, where it remains to this day.

The Assumption of the Virgin is a painting by Peter Paul Rubens painted in 1626 as an image for the high altar of Notre Dame Cathedral in Antwerp, where it remains to this day.

Description:

Mythological theme:

The painting depicts the Ascension of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, who, according to the New Testament apocrypha, was bodily received (ascended) into heaven after death.

Composition and details:

In Rubens's characteristic style, the painting is full of drama and emotion. A chorus of angels lifts Mary in a spiraling motion toward the light of divine light. The Twelve Apostles gather around her tomb, and the women, represented as Mary Magdalene and the two sisters of the Virgin Mary, express sadness and reverence.

Scene details:

The artist depicted details such as fresh flowers miraculously filling the empty tomb, symbolizing the miracles and holiness of the event.

History of creation:

The Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp held a competition for the altarpiece of the Assumption in 1611, and Rubens' designs surpassed the rest. The artist completed the work in September 1626, 15 years after the start of the project.

There is a smaller studio version of the painting housed in the National Gallery of Art in Washington.

"The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary" by Rubens is a magnificent work that combines religious themes, drama and artistry.