The Ascension of Christ (one of seven) 1530 - 1565

Jean II Pénicaud created this enamel plaque, “The Ascension of Christ,” as one of seven panels during the sixteenth century. The restricted palette of black, white, and gold creates a striking image. The composition is divided into earthly and heavenly realms, with the apostles below and a radiant space above. The use of grisaille, a technique employing shades of gray, is evident in the figures' drapery, accentuating their forms through light and shadow. This monochromatic approach heightens the drama. The gold detailing, particularly around the aureoles and the frame, infuses a sense of divine splendor, guiding the viewer's eye upward. The structured composition and the calculated use of tonal variations serve to amplify the spiritual narrative. The plaque's formal elements serve as a semiotic system, reflecting the cultural and religious codes of the time. It invites us to consider how artistic techniques convey meaning and inspire devotion, illustrating art's role in mediating faith.