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called(1528–1588)
The Visitation
Venice, about 1577
Oil on canvas
The Virgin Mary, in the centre, greets her elderly cousin Elizabeth with news of the impending birth of Christ. After a long barren life, Elizabeth is also miraculously pregnant, with John the Baptist. Veronese locates the meeting in front of a palace. The observers wear contemporary clothes which show off the artist’s skill as a colourist.
The painting was one of six Veronese made for a church on the island of Murano, in Venice. It was originally positioned higher so the viewer would look up towards the holy scene.
Purchased 1953 (No. 53.5)