Da Spedale Della Misericordia, Predella 2, 2, Apparizione Della Vergine a S.bernardo 1370

This tempera painting on wood, "Apparition of the Virgin to Saint Bernard," was created by Giovanni da Milano in 1370. It is part of the "Da Spedale Della Misericordia" predella. The scene depicts the Virgin Mary appearing to Saint Bernard as he is writing, a moment of divine inspiration that has been interpreted as a metaphor for creative inspiration. The intricate gold background and the ornate details of the architecture create a sense of religious grandeur and awe. This panel exemplifies Giovanni da Milano's masterful ability to capture the sacred and the earthly in a harmonious composition, characteristic of late Gothic art.