Mini Post #1: Hajer Samir

Assumption of the Virgin, Titian 1516-18

The image depicted above is an altarpiece panel oil painting by Titian during the Italian Renaissance. It was produced for the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari located in Venice and was recognized as the biggest altarpiece in the entire city. The previously shocking work of art soon came to be termed a paragon which established Titian's place as the leading artist among the Venetians and an important one throughout Italy wholly. This work of art expressed Titian's adaptability to the newfound changes in High Renaissance paintings in the southern region. The altarpiece is a work inspired by religion; a huge inspiration to many works of art during the Italian Renaissance period. In the painting, the Virgin Mary can be seen ascending towards saints and God the Father while rising above the group of apostles. The scene reflects the belief that Mary’s body was physically moved into Heaven after her earthly life; that most Catholics believe happened after her death. However, others believed that Mary was still alive during the “assumption," something which remained unsettled amongst the Catholic people. In his work, Titian insinuates his belief of Mary having been assumed after death by unobtrusively painting a stone coffin at the base of his work. This seemingly went unnoticed, however, and was praised in unison by all. As mentioned, the state in which the Virgin Mary ascended to heaven remained unsettled amongst the Catholics of Venice. With Titian being one of the most influential of artists during the period of the Italian Renaissance, the position he reflected in his work of art could lead the Catholics of today to believe that the Virgin Mary was indeed deceased during the time of assumption. Additionally, the placement of the Assumption of the Virgin as an altarpiece in one of the most famous churches in the city also confirms the approval of the respected church authorities. This is an added confirmation that the belief of Mary’s assumption after death may have been the most accurate of the two accounts. As such, the validation may lead to the belief being instilled in the faith of Catholics today.