Coronation of the Virgin 1592 - 1668

Giulio Benso's pen and ink drawing, "Coronation of the Virgin," captures a pivotal scene in Catholic iconography. The artwork reflects the cultural and religious fervor of 17th-century Italy, a period marked by the Counter-Reformation. Consider the social conditions that shaped Benso’s artistic production; the Catholic Church was a major patron of the arts, commissioning works to reinforce religious doctrine and inspire devotion among the faithful. The "Coronation" theme, with the Virgin Mary being crowned as Queen of Heaven, underscores her elevated status within the Church's hierarchy. The visual codes within the image, such as the dove representing the Holy Spirit, carry deep theological meaning. By examining Church records and theological treatises, we can better understand the social structures of the time. This allows us to interpret the drawing not just as a work of art, but as a cultural artifact that reflects the religious and institutional context in which it was made.