Central panel of a triptych (study for a window at St. Paul's Church, Birmingham) 

The central panel of this triptych, a study for a window at St. Paul's Church, Birmingham, is a work by renowned historical painter Benjamin West. The scene is a depiction of the ascension of Christ, with a radiant figure of Christ ascending into the clouds accompanied by angels. The lower portion of the painting depicts the reactions of those below, some gazing upwards with reverence, others expressing fear and shock. The overall composition is dynamic, with a strong diagonal line guiding the viewer's eye upward towards the divine event. West's use of light and shadow emphasizes the heavenly light emanating from Christ and the contrast between the earthly and celestial realms. The painting exemplifies West's skill in portraying religious themes with grandeur and dramatic effect.