Presentation of Mary

Summary

According to tradition, Mary was presented at the Temple in Jerusalem at age three, where she was dedicated to God and lived until her betrothal. A popular subject in Renaissance art.

Biblical Reference

Book(s): Protoevangelium of James (apocryphal)

Artworks Depicting This Story

The Presentation of the Virgin Mary at the Temple Self-researched

Oil on canvas 1638-1642

A major Baroque altarpiece originally painted for St. Peter's Basilica, depicting the young Virgin Mary being presented at the Temple in Jerusalem. Considered a highpoint of Romanelli's work, the painting was later transferred to Santa Maria degli Angeli where it hangs in the transept.