25. Raising of Lazarus Giotto di Bondone (1266-1337)

The composition presents a dramatic scene unfolding within a landscape dominated by a deep blue sky and rocky terrain. A central figure, identifiable as a man with a beard and long hair, stands before a shrouded individual lying on the ground. He gestures outwards with one hand while raising the other in what appears to be an invocation or command.
A group of onlookers surrounds them, their faces expressing a mixture of awe, wonder, and perhaps disbelief. Their postures are varied – some raise their hands towards the central figure, others lean forward intently, and still others seem frozen in place by the unfolding spectacle. The figures are clothed in robes of varying hues – reds, greens, pinks, and earth tones – which contribute to a sense of visual richness and differentiate them from one another.
The individual lying on the ground is heavily swathed in bandages, suggesting recent entombment. A small figure, seemingly a child, peers out from behind a rock formation at the lower right corner, adding an element of vulnerability and innocence to the scene. The landscape itself is rendered with a degree of naturalism; rocky outcrops are visible, and sparse vegetation clings to the hillside.
The use of light is significant. A golden halo surrounds the central figure and several others in the group, emphasizing their spiritual importance. This illumination contrasts sharply with the deep shadows that fall across parts of the scene, heightening the drama and creating a sense of mystery. The artist’s choice to depict the event within an outdoor setting underscores its public nature and emphasizes the impact it has on those witnessing it.
Subtleties in the composition suggest deeper meanings. The positioning of the onlookers implies their role as witnesses to divine power, while the childs presence hints at hope and renewal. The contrast between life and death – represented by the resurrected man and his bandages – is a central theme. The overall effect is one of profound spiritual significance, conveying a moment of extraordinary intervention in human affairs.