The Virgin Adoring the Host

Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres

Created:
Movement:
1852
Neoclassicism
key Notes:
Religious devotion; Neoclassical elegance.
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Dimensions:
15 7/8 x 12 7/8 in. (40.3 x 32.7 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Easy
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story of the work:

"The Virgin Adoring the Host" is a painting by Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres, completed in 1852. The work depicts the Virgin Mary in a moment of reverent adoration towards the Eucharist, symbolizing her role in the Christian faith. Ingres, known for his neoclassical style, employs a serene composition and meticulous attention to detail. The painting reflects Ingres's interest in religious themes and his ability to convey emotional depth through his subjects. It is characterized by a harmonious color palette and a focus on the interplay of light and shadow. The artwork is part of the collection at the Musée d'Orsay in Paris. The specific circumstances surrounding its commission or creation are not well-documented.

Description of the work:

"The Virgin Adoring the Host," created by Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres in 1852, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts the Virgin Mary in a moment of reverent contemplation. The composition centers on the figure of the Virgin, who is portrayed in a traditional blue and white robe, symbolizing purity and devotion. Her gaze is directed downward towards the Host, which is depicted as a luminous, central element in the painting. The background is rendered in soft, muted tones that enhance the ethereal quality of the scene. Ingres employs a smooth, meticulous technique, emphasizing the delicate features of the Virgin's face and the intricate details of her attire. The use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth, drawing the viewer's attention to the spiritual significance of the moment. The overall composition reflects Ingres' neoclassical style, characterized by clarity, harmony, and a focus on the idealized form.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Virgin Adoring the Host