Artwork
The Dormition of the Virgin
The Dormition of the Virgin is an unspecified painting by Gherardo Starnina. It dates from 1405 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.
About this work
Overview
The Dormition of the Virgin is a 1405 painting by Gherardo Starnina, a Florentine artist active during the early Quattrocento. It is now part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the death of the Virgin Mary, surrounded by mourners in a solemn scene. The Virgin is shown on a red bed with a blue cover, her body draped in a blue robe and a halo around her head.
Technique & Style
The artist uses a gold background and blue plants to create a sense of reverence. The mourners, dressed in variously colored robes, are arranged around the Virgin, some holding objects or praying.
History & Provenance
Starnina was trained in Florence under Antonio Veneziano and Agnolo Gaddi, and later worked in Spain under Juan I of Castile, reflecting his connection to both Italian and Spanish artistic traditions.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Gherardo Starnina (c. 1360–1413) was an Italian painter from Florence in the Quattrocento era. According to the biographer Giorgio Vasari, Starnina initially trained with Antonio Veneziano, then with Agnolo Gaddi. He is…
