Titian, Assumption of the Virgin

Titian, Assumption of the Virgin, c. 1516-18, oil on wood, 22' 6" x 11' 10" (Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, Venice) Speakers: Dr. Steven Zucker & Dr. Beth Harris. Created by Beth Harris and Steven Zucker.

[@easilydistracted5192]

I like the association with the triumphal arch, as Mary in triumph over Death. The 'Frari' in the church's name already tells us it's Franciscan. That order promoted the physical assumption of Mary into heaven, rather than a spiritual ascension after death. This theological issue was only cleared in the twentieth century! Naturally, this is why Titian obscures her coffin with the apostles. It doesn't matter anymore. And as the viewer closes in on the painting, their own procession through the triumphal arches promises salvation. It's a massive step forward in the tradition of this kind of painting, and Titian's initial piece kicked loose a whole trend of such altars across Italy. By the way, 2018 is the 500th anniversary of the Assunta!

[@moonisnotafish]

smarthistory is singlehandedly carrying my History of Art A level ❤

[@smarthistory-art-history]

We hope to have a new essay on this work published soon.

[@Sasha0927]

What a massive painting! I wonder if this is the biggest I've seen so far... The commentary on the circles of light and diagonals in Mary's garment made the piece even lovelier.

[@migueleduardoescalante5381]

This Is Wonderful In The 4th Glorious Mystery

[@arthurkummer6447]

I enjoy your videos very much. Please do a video on 'Sacred and Profane Love' by Titian. Appreciate your amazing work. 👏🏼