The artwork titled “Death of the Virgin,” created by Hugo van der Goes around the year 1470, is an oil painting on a panel displaying the artist’s characteristic finesse. This Northern Renaissance piece measures 253 x 141 cm and falls within the genre of religious painting. It is currently housed in the Groeningemuseum located in Bruges, Belgium.
In the artwork, the Virgin Mary is depicted on her deathbed, surrounded by grieving apostles. Their expressions reflect a deep sorrow and reverence, emphasizing the emotional gravity of the scene. Above them, a celestial vision reveals Christ and a host of angels descending to receive Mary’s soul, enveloped in a radiant glow. The composition highlights van der Goes’ skill in rendering detailed human emotions and his adept use of color and light to enhance the narrative’s spiritual intensity. The painting’s intricate representation of figures and divine elements exemplifies the distinctive qualities of the Northern Renaissance movement.
