The Raising of Lazarus (detail) 1497

Benozzo Gozzoli made this painting of the Raising of Lazarus in Italy during the 15th century. Religious paintings like this served a crucial public role in society, to teach scripture and to promote social cohesion through shared beliefs. Looking closely, the image makes meaning through culturally specific visual codes. Here, biblical figures are depicted wearing robes, and the use of halos signifies holiness. These details would have resonated strongly with contemporary audiences. Renaissance Italy was deeply religious, and the Catholic Church was a major institutional power. Art was often commissioned by the church or wealthy patrons to demonstrate piety and affirm social hierarchies. We might consider how this painting reinforces religious doctrine and notions of divine power, while also serving the interests of its patrons. To truly understand this work, we need to look into the religious and institutional history of the time. Only then can we appreciate its significance within its original social context.