Paul Veronese, The Coronation of the Virgin, at the Accademia Galleries in Venice, Italy

Paul Veronese (1528–1588) “The Coronation of the Virgin”

Coronation of the Virgin Painting – Oil on canvas (405 x 219 cm) 1586

“The Coronation of the Virgin” by Veronese was commissioned for the high altar of the Church of Ognissanti in the Dorsoduro District of Venice.

In July 1586, the Church of Ognissanti was reconsecrated following a fire that had destroyed part of its structure.

This work demonstrates Veronese’s talent for depicting such a density of figures, whilst maintaining harmony and coherence to convey a message that is so clear and powerful – one of this painter’s greatest strengths.

Coronation of the Virgin The saints, prophets, apostles, evangelists and Church Fathers are harmoniously arranged over a height of four metres in this painting, thanks to the subtle use of colour, which draws the eye upwards towards its main subject: the Virgin Mary.

The spiritual beauty of the Virgin Mary is heightened: she is depicted kneeling in a white gown with blue flowers, modestly folding her arms across her chest to receive the crown and the royal sceptre, whilst angels drape her in a mantle of gold and light.

Mary is welcomed into Paradise by the Holy Trinity: God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit represented by the dove.

Veronese depicts Mary’s humility as she kneels, her eyes cast down towards the earthly world beneath the clouds, where the faithful venerate her as the woman representing the supreme holiness in the highest heavens.

Coronation of the Virgin