Manuscript Illumination with the Assumption of the Virgin in an Initial A, from an Antiphonary 1450 - 1460

This manuscript illumination, created by the Italian artist Cosmè Tura in the mid-15th century, depicts the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The scene unfolds within an elaborate initial "A", where a group of figures, likely saints, kneel in prayer while Mary ascends into heaven, surrounded by a host of angels. Tura's distinctive style, characterized by vibrant colors and a blend of realism and symbolism, is evident in the detailed rendering of the figures and the evocative depiction of the celestial scene. The illumination serves as a testament to the artistry and religious fervor of the period, showcasing the high quality of manuscript art produced in Renaissance Italy.