The Purification of the Virgin 

Here is a depiction of the Purification of the Virgin, created by the Limbourg brothers around the early 15th century in the medieval tradition of illuminated manuscripts. During this period, art often served to reinforce social norms and religious doctrines. This piece is no exception. The artwork shows the Virgin Mary ascending the steps to a temple, likely referencing the biblical story of Mary’s purification after childbirth and the presentation of Jesus in the temple. Her attire emphasizes her status, yet the scene also suggests a prescribed social role for women. The gaze of the crowd, mostly women, directed towards Mary highlights her as an exemplar of female virtue. Interestingly, the ornate architectural setting contrasts with the humble act of purification, blending sacred narrative with earthly grandeur. This intersection speaks volumes about the complex relationship between the spiritual and the secular during the late Middle Ages. A boy tumbles on the stairs, as if to remind us of the vagaries of fate. It encapsulates both religious devotion and social expectations, offering a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of its time.