Assumption of the Virgin 1557 - 1563

Jacopo Sansovino made this bronze relief panel, Assumption of the Virgin, in Italy, during the 16th century. Here, the Virgin Mary ascends to heaven surrounded by angels, a popular subject during the Renaissance, reflecting the cultural significance of religion and its institutions at this time. Sansovino’s work illustrates how art reinforces religious beliefs by depicting sacred stories in a visually compelling way. Consider the historical context. The Catholic Church was a powerful institution, commissioning artworks to inspire faith and convey religious teachings. Artists like Sansovino played a crucial role in visually communicating these religious narratives, contributing to the Church's cultural influence. Studying works like this involves exploring the social and institutional forces that shaped artistic production. Researching the patronage system, religious doctrines, and the artist’s biography can shed light on the artwork’s meaning and its role within society. Art serves as a lens through which we can examine the complex relationship between culture, institutions, and individual expression.