Artwork
The Engagement of Mary (verso: upper half of the Coronation of Mary)
The Engagement of Mary (verso: upper half of the Coronation of Mary) is a paint painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Master of the Life of the Virgin. It dates from 1474 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.
About this work
Overview
The Engagement of Mary is a 1474 painting attributed to the Master of the Life of the Virgin. It is housed at the Alte Pinakothek, with the upper half of another scene, the Coronation of Mary, on its reverse.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a solemn gathering in a richly decorated room, where a man and woman, likely Mary and Joseph, are central figures shaking hands, surrounded by onlookers.
Technique & Style
The artist has achieved a sense of depth and texture through the use of varied colors and intricate details, such as the folds of clothing and facial expressions, characteristic of medieval art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Master of the Life of the Virgin
This anonymous painter worked in the 1470s, specializing in small devotional panels that tell the story of Mary’s life.
The Visitation with a portrait of donor Johann von Hirtz (?-?)
The Life of Mary: Joachim meets Anna at the Golden Gate; in the background the Annunciation of the birth of Mary to Joachim by an angel (verso: upper half of the Crucifixion of Christ)
Maria mit dem Kind
The Life of Mary: the Assumption of Mary (verso: lower half of the Coronation of Mary)
The Life of Mary: the Annunciation (lower half of the Crucifixion of Christ)
Portrait of an unknown master builder
The life of Mary: the presentation of Mary in the temple
Virgin and Child with Three Saints
