Joachim and Anna Giving Food to the Poor and Offerings to the Temple c. 1400 - 1405

Andrea di Bartolo painted "Joachim and Anna Giving Food to the Poor and Offerings to the Temple" sometime in the early 15th century, a period marked by the rise of humanist thought and shifts in religious patronage. This panel offers us a glimpse into the social values of the time, showcasing the biblical figures Joachim and Anna, parents of the Virgin Mary, in acts of charity and piety. What I find particularly striking is the way the scene is split: on one side, we see the wealthy giving alms to the poor, and on the other, offerings being made to the temple. It presents a world strictly defined by class and social role. The emotional weight of the piece lies, for me, in the figures of the poor, their hands outstretched, embodying dependence and the hope for compassion within a hierarchical society. It makes you wonder about the complexities of power, faith, and the everyday lives of people living at this time. The painting doesn’t shy away from depicting the social structures of its time but also subtly invites reflection on these dynamics.