Who painted Coronation of the Virgin?

Coronation of the Virgin was painted by Unknown in 1650.

Where can I see Coronation of the Virgin?

Coronation of the Virgin is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artwork

Coronation of the Virgin

Coronation of the Virgin is a print by Unknown. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This early‑modern print, executed on paper around 1650, presents a conventional depiction of the Virgin Mary's coronation.

About this work

Overview

The image is rendered in black‑and‑white line work, typical of the period’s reproductive prints, and serves as a devotional illustration of Mary's exaltation.

This early‑modern print, executed on paper around 1650, presents a conventional depiction of the Virgin Mary's coronation. The composition follows a design linked to Annibale Carracci, whose influence shaped the arrangement of figures and celestial setting. The image is rendered in black‑and‑white line work, typical of the period’s reproductive prints, and serves as a devotional illustration of Mary's exaltation.

Subject & Meaning

At the center, the Virgin is seated upon a cloud, hands joined in prayer, while a crowned figure—interpreted as Christ—places a golden diadem upon her head. Surrounding them are attendant angels and a dove, symbols of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the theological theme of Mary's heavenly honor and her role as Queen of Heaven within Catholic iconography.

Technique & Style

The print employs chiaroscuro through varied line density and cross‑hatching to suggest light falling on the central figures and receding shadows in the surrounding clouds. This creates a modest sense of volume and spatial depth despite the monochrome medium. The delicate rendering of drapery and the graceful poses reflect the Carracci‑inspired classicism that balances naturalism with idealized form.

History & Provenance

Produced in the mid‑seventeenth century, the work likely originated in a workshop that specialized in disseminating Carracci’s designs to a broader audience. While the specific printer remains unidentified, the print circulated among devotional collections in Italy and later entered museum holdings, where it is catalogued as an example of the period’s religious print culture.