Artwork
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)
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) is a paint painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Master of the Life of the Virgin. It dates from 1460 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.
About this work
Overview
This painting, created around 1460 by the Master of the Life of the Virgin, is a religious work depicting a scene from the life of Mary. It is paired with a Crucifixion scene on its reverse side.
Subject & Meaning
The painting shows Joachim meeting Anna at the Golden Gate, a pivotal moment in Mary's narrative, with the Annunciation to Joachim visible in the background. The scene is set against a cityscape and features figures in detailed attire.
Technique & Style
The artist's use of color and composition achieves a sense of depth, with intricate details such as the ornate gate and the figures' clothing. A warm yellow sky contributes to the serene atmosphere.
History & Provenance
The painting is now held at the Alte Pinakothek. Its creation is attributed to the Master of the Life of the Virgin, active during the 15th century.
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 (?-?)
Maria mit dem Kind
The Life of Mary: the Assumption of Mary (verso: lower half of the Coronation of Mary)
The Engagement of Mary (verso: upper 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
The visitation
The Visitation Panel from Saint John Retable
The miracle of the flowering rod (left); the marriage of Mary and Joseph (right)
Marriage of the Virgin
Embrace at the Golden Gate
Der hl. Veit entsagt den Freuden der Welt
The Visitation
The Council of Salvation
St. Barbara is led into the tower
Zurückweisung des Opfers Joachims und Annas