Jacopo di Cione and workshop – The Resurrection Part 4 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a vertical arrangement dominated by a central, luminous figure ascending within a golden halo. Above this figure, a stylized banner bearing a cross is positioned, further emphasizing its divine nature. The background consists of a landscape featuring rocky outcroppings and sparse vegetation, rendered in muted earth tones that contrast with the brilliance emanating from above.
Below the ascending figure lies a large stone slab, meticulously detailed with carved patterns. Around this slab, several figures are scattered; some kneel in apparent awe or reverence, while others lie prostrate on the ground, seemingly overwhelmed by the spectacle unfolding before them. Their garments display a range of colors – reds, blues, and yellows – which add visual interest to the scene. A few individuals appear to be draped over the slab itself, their postures suggesting shock or collapse.
The artist’s use of perspective is characteristic of the period; spatial depth is suggested rather than realistically depicted. The figures are arranged in a hierarchical manner, with the ascending figure occupying the apex of the composition and commanding immediate attention. This arrangement reinforces the narratives focus on divine intervention and its impact upon those present.
The overall effect conveys a sense of profound spiritual significance. The subdued palette and deliberate positioning of the figures contribute to an atmosphere of solemnity and reverence, underscoring the transformative power of the event being depicted. The scattered postures of the onlookers suggest not only astonishment but also a disruption of their earthly existence in the face of the divine. The inclusion of varied garments hints at a diverse group witnessing this momentous occasion, potentially symbolizing its universal implications.