Attributed to Antonio da Viterbo the Elder – Santa Francesca Romana (1384–1440) Clothed by the Virgin Metropolitan Museum: part 2

The composition presents a layered narrative unfolding across distinct registers. The upper portion is dominated by a golden background, typical of devotional art from this period, which serves to elevate and sanctify the figures depicted within it. Here we see a central female figure, crowned and draped in flowing robes, seemingly bestowing garments upon a woman below. This act appears to be mediated by several winged figures, their presence reinforcing the divine nature of the event. The vibrant red fabric held by these celestial beings contrasts sharply with the gold, drawing attention to the transfer of clothing as a significant moment.
Below this heavenly scene, a more earthly setting is established. A building, likely representing a religious structure or convent, occupies the left side of the composition. Within its confines, another figure, also haloed, appears to be engaged in a similar act of dressing or blessing. Two smaller winged figures flank this individual, while two feline creatures are positioned at the base of the building, their inclusion adding an element of unexpected detail and potentially symbolic weight – perhaps representing domesticity or even guarding spirits.
The right side of the painting is populated by a large group of similarly attired individuals, all bearing halos. They appear to be observing the events unfolding above, their expressions unreadable but suggesting reverence and participation in this sacred spectacle. One figure among them extends his arms towards the central scene, as if receiving or acknowledging the divine grace being bestowed.
The painting’s subtexts revolve around themes of sanctity, divine intervention, and spiritual transformation. The act of clothing itself carries symbolic significance – it can represent purification, acceptance into a religious order, or the bestowal of virtue. The hierarchical arrangement of figures emphasizes the connection between the earthly realm and the divine, suggesting that grace is transmitted through intermediaries. The inclusion of seemingly mundane details like the cats introduces an element of realism while simultaneously hinting at deeper meanings related to protection, domesticity, or even temptation. Overall, the work conveys a sense of profound religious devotion and the power of divine favor in shaping human destiny.