The Marriage of the Virgin
Medium
Tempera and gold on wood
Dimensions
25 5/8 x 18 3/4 in. (65.1 x 47.6 cm)
Classification
Paintings
Department
European Paintings
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Maitland F. Griggs Collection, Bequest of Maitland F. Griggs, 1943
Accession Number
43.98.7
Tags
Art Historical Context
In the serene glow of gold leaf, *The Marriage of the Virgin* (ca. 1430) by Michelino da Beszo captures a pivotal biblical moment: the betrothal of the Virgin Mary to Saint Joseph. This tempera and gold on wood panel, measuring 25⅝ × 18¾ inches, depicts Mary and Joseph at the center, surrounded by saints, male figures, and delicate birds—likely symbolizing Holy Spirit or the miraculous flowering rod that confirmed Joseph's divine selection as her spouse. Created in Lombardy, Italy, during the International Gothic style, the work blends intricate detailing with luminous elegance, bridging medie...