The Mourning Virgin and Longinus (?) (fragments from Christ crucified)
Artist
Italian
Artist/Culture
Spoleto
Dateabout 1300
Mediumfresco transferred to fabric
Dimensions180 x 109.2 cm (70 7/8 x 43 in.)
ClassificationsPaintings
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Terms
Object number1924.20
Label TextAmong the treasures of Worcester Art Museum’s collection are its frescoes from the convent of Santa Maria inter Angelos overlooking Spoleto, Italy. The convent was a community of nuns, and the frescoes were originally in the upper floor of the convent chapel. The female nuns sat in this area while male priests performed the ritual of the Mass below. The images provided the women a visual focus for the ceremony that they could hear but not see.
This image of the Virgin Mary and the soldier Longinus comes from one of two Crucifixion scenes among the Spoleto frescoes. Mary raises her hand to her face in a gesture of grief. Longinus’s face has been removed, but he probably wore an expression of wonder. According to legend, Longinus was blind, but when he pierced Christ’s chest with his spear, the holy blood restored his sight and he converted to Christianity.ProvenanceJohn Levy Gallery, New York NYOn View
Not on view
Spinello Aretino
late 14th–early 15th century
