The Presentation in the Temple, Lorenzo Monaco (c. 1370-1425)
The size and shape of this small panel indicate that this painting originally formed part of the predella (the lower horizontal section) of an altarpiece. Traditionally this lower area of an altarpiece depicted stories from the lives of the saints who were pictured above. This scene shows Christ’s presentation in the Temple. Alongside the Nativity and other scenes from Christ’s Infancy, this moment which we read of in Luke 2:22-39 was frequently represented in the early Renaissance. Lorenzo Monaco situates the scene outdoors, in front of the high temple, which he evokes in the church-like building at the right. Mary stands prominently in the foreground, her blue-clad robe distinguishing her from others around her in their paler colours. Christ’s mother steps away from the other figures as she hands the Child to Simeon the High Priest of the Temple. The consecration of a first-born child was an important ritual of Jewish religious life. The interaction at the centre of the panel between the Virgin, Christ and Simeon enhances the solemnity of this action. So does the response of Anna the prophetess, who appears clad in pale green just to the left of the Virgin. The scroll which unfurls from Anna’s left hand reminds us how she spoke to all “who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.”
Art Guide Resource
The 2013 Art Guide has been compiled by Claire Renkin, well-known Art Historian and Lecturer at Yarra Theological Union and narrated by Margaret Coffey. Margaret has a background in historical research, journalism, education and broadcasting including at the ABC. Artworks featured © Bridgeman Images.
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