Artwork

The Assumption of the Virgin

The Assumption of the Virgin, by François Boucher, oil, 1759
The Assumption of the Virgin, by François Boucher, oil, 1759

The Assumption of the Virgin is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist François Boucher. It dates from 1759 and is held in the collection of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

About this work

Overview

The Assumption of the Virgin is an oil painting created by François Boucher in 1759. It is now held at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the Virgin Mary ascending to heaven, surrounded by angels and cherubs. The scene is set against a cloudy backdrop, with the Virgin at its center, wearing a flowing white robe. The surrounding figures are shown in various poses, some playing instruments, others looking on.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by the use of chiaroscuro, a technique that employs strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume and depth. This technique contributes to an overall effect of serenity and wonder.

Artist & collection

Portrait of François Boucher

Artist

François Boucher

François Boucher was a French painter, draughtsman and etcher, who worked in the Rococo style.