The Assumption of the Virgin c. 1480

This woodcut presents the Virgin Mary's ascent to heaven, surrounded by divine light and attended by angels. Here, Mary's upward movement is a visual metaphor for spiritual transcendence, framed by a halo, a symbol that has long signified divinity and enlightenment across various cultures. The motif of the ascending figure is not unique to Christianity. Consider its echoes in ancient Egyptian depictions of pharaohs rising to join the sun god Ra, and in classical myths like the ascent of Ganymede to Olympus. Yet, here, the addition of angels introduces a uniquely Christian narrative of divine assistance, a poignant visualization of the soul's journey. The collective yearning for transcendence finds expression through this image, engaging the viewer on a deeply subconscious level. The symbol of the halo, initially a pagan attribute, was adopted and transformed by Christianity, exemplifying the cyclical progression of symbols. Such motifs reappear, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts, bearing witness to our enduring desire to reconcile the earthly and the divine.