Legends of the Madonna, as Represented in the Fine Arts Volume 25; Forming the Third Series of Sacred and Legendary Art (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1852 Excerpt: ..."And they returned home together. "And when her time was come, Anna brought forth a daughter; and she said, This day my soul magnifieth the Lord.' And she laid herself down in her bed; and she called the name of her child Mary, which in the Hebrew is Miriam." With the scenes of this beautiful pastoral begins the life of the Virgin. 1. We have first Joachim rejected from the temple. He stands on the steps before the altar holding a lamb; and the high priest opposite to him, with arm upraised, appears to refuse his offering. Such is the usual motif; but the incident has been variously treated--in the earlier and ruder examples, with a ludicrous want of dignity; for Joachim is almost tumbling down the steps of the temple to avoid the box on the ear which Issachar the priest is in the act of Ta.i.ioo bestowing in a most energetic fashion. On the other hand, Fiance. the group by Taddeo Gaddi, though so early in date, has not since been excelled either in the grace or the dramatic significance of the treatment. Joachim turns away, with his lamb in his arms, repulsed, but gently, by the priest. To the right are three personages who bring offerings, one of whom, prostrate on his knees, yet looks up at Joachim with a sneering expression--a fine representation of the pharasaical piety of one of the elect, rejoicing in the humiliation of a brother. On the other side are three persons who appear to be commenting on the scene. In the more elaborate com-Ghiriandajo. position by Ghirlandajo, there is a grand view into the in-Florence, terior of the temple, with arches richly sculptured. Joachim NovciVi. is thrust forth by one of the attendants, while in the background the high priest accepts the offering of a more favoured votary. On each side are groups lo...