The artwork, titled “Mystic Marriage of St Catherine,” was created by Hans Memling between 1479 and 1480. This oil-on-panel painting, a product of the Northern Renaissance movement, measures 67 by 72 cm and belongs to the genre of religious painting. It is currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) in New York City, NY, US.
In “Mystic Marriage of St Catherine,” Memling captures a serene and holy scene that features the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child at the center. St Catherine, kneeling near the Virgin Mary, is depicted placing a ring on the Christ Child’s finger, symbolizing the mystic marriage. Surrounding the central figures are a series of angels adorned in ornate garments, some of whom play musical instruments, contributing to the sacred atmosphere. The background reveals a lush landscape with architectural elements, enhancing the narrative quality of the scene and emphasizing its divine nature. The meticulous detail and vibrant color palette are characteristic of Memling’s style and the Northern Renaissance period.