Artwork
The Virgin Crowned by Jesus Christ
The Virgin Crowned by Jesus Christ is a print by the Renaissance artist Master of the Die. It dates from 1534 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
The Virgin Crowned by Jesus Christ is a 1534 print by Maître au Dé, depicting a coronation scene of the Virgin Mary by the Christ Child, in its second state, identified by the inscribed title Coronatio Beatae Mariae Virginis.
Subject & Meaning
The print illustrates a pivotal religious moment: the coronation of the Virgin Mary by Jesus Christ. Central figures include Mary kneeling, Christ crowning her, surrounding angels (some with instruments), two older men (one gesturing upward, the other with a lion), and cherubs below with a box. The composition conveys divine honor and celestial celebration.
Technique & Style
The artist employs chiaroscuro to create sharp figure delineation through contrasted shadows and light. Highlights illuminate the crown, halos, and gradated drapery and skin tones, emphasizing the divine nature of the scene.
History & Provenance
Created in 1534 by Maître au Dé, this is the second state of the print, distinguished by its inscribed title Coronatio Beatae Mariae Virginis. Provenance details are not provided in the available information.
Context
The work reflects Renaissance religious art themes, where dramatic lighting and composition were used to convey spiritual significance. The scene itself is rooted in Catholic doctrine, symbolizing Mary's queenship in Heaven.
Legacy
The legacy of The Virgin Crowned by Jesus Christ lies in its representation of 16th-century religious printmaking and the enduring depiction of a key Catholic theological motif. Its influence on subsequent religious art is not detailed in the provided sources.
Artist & collection
Artist
Master of the Die (fl. 1525–1560) was an Italian engraver and printmaker. His year of birth and death are unknown. The identity of the Master of the Die is uncertain. He was given this name because he signed his prints…
