Geertgen tot Sint Jans

The glorification of the Virgin

1490 - 1495
old masters

The panel depicts an adoration of Mary as a sum of various Bible texts. The vision shows Mary seated on the moon sickle and crushing the dragon under it. She is circled by angels with musical instruments and the instruments of the passion. The visionary character is strengthened by the heavenly light surrounding mother and child. This depiction of Mary refers to the Revelations of St. John 12:1: 'And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars.' The panel was originally part of a diptych. The other panel is in Edinburgh and depicts the crucifixion of Christ.