Author: Jacopo Tintoretto
Dating: 1541-1542
Century: 16th century
Technique: Oil on canvas
Location: Altar of the Purification of the Fishmongers’ Guild (fourth right altar); on map number 8
This early work by Tintoretto depicts the evangelical episode in the lower-middle register, taking place under a dark empty sky. The characters surround the altar, covered with a bright white tablecloth, adorned with lion and griffin heads, and raised on two steps. This is the focal point of the scene, where the Madonna hands over the Child to the priest Simeon. The Virgin is wearing a wide robe of intense red color, her head covered with a white veil, and her face, with a Greek profile, has a serious and concentrated expression. Jesus, supported by his mother, is depicted in a dynamic pose, with his arms outstretched towards the bearded priest dressed in a golden mantle and a high miter. Behind Mary stands Joseph, in a secondary but attentive and participatory position. In the foreground, a young mother with her little child awaits her turn and observes the scene. In the background, numerous characters are depicted: priests, dignitaries, and Carmelites.
