Title of Art: (Presentation in the Temple)
Subjects: Mary, Mother of God; Anna
Ritual Pose/Object: scroll
Artist: Jacopo Torriti
Art Form: Mosaic
Date of Composition: 1296
Event: Presentation of Christ
Exhibit Institution: Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica of Saint Mary Major), apse
Exhibit Location: Rome, Italy
VM Image #: 0030
Photographer: Shala Graham
Date of Photograph: December 31, 2022
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In the triumphal arch before the apse, on right side, a scene depicting Mary holding Jesus in the temple, as she and Joseph present him in the temple. Mary and Jesus are centered in this small composition, with Joseph looking back towards Jesus. Anna is depicted in close proximity to Joseph and is flanked by an angel, while a diminutive Simeon is show to the right, holding a cloth to receive the child.
This piece depicts the scene from Luke 2:22-38. Per the Jewish Law (Lev. 12:6-8, Ex. 13:2,12), Mary and Joseph dedicated Jesus at the temple. The art invites reflection on Mary's esteemed status in church history, as she is depicted in an elaborate robe with jewels. Similarly, Anna is shown prominently in the scene, and her testimony of gratitude for God's salvation, as recorded in Luke's story, is a reminder of God's faithfulness.