Ascension of Jesus in Christian art

The Ascension, by Dosso Dossi, 16th century. Many Ascension scenes have an upper (Heavenly) and a lower (earthly) part.[1]

The Ascension of Jesus to Heaven as stated in the New Testament has been a frequent subject in Christian art, as well as a theme in theological writings.[2]

The earliest direct depictions of the Ascension date to around the beginnings of the 5th century, often based on the Hand of God representations and by the 6th century the iconography had been established.[3][4]

In many depictions, (and always in the Eastern Church) the Virgin Mary is at the center of the group of Apostles (representing the Church) who look upwards towards the ascending Jesus who usually signals a blessing with his right hand.[5][6]

  1. ^ Cite error: The named reference Earls was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ Encyclopedia of World Religions by Johannes P. Schade 2007, ISBN 1-60136-000-2 entry under Ascension.[1]
  3. ^ Cite error: The named reference Jensen51 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  4. ^ Cite error: The named reference Baggley was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  5. ^ Cite error: The named reference Nes was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  6. ^ Cite error: The named reference Leonide was invoked but never defined (see the help page).