The Presentation in the Temple
Charles Poërson, The Presentation in the Temple, 1652-1657, oil on canvas, Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Edwin Binney, 3rd, public domain, 84.52.1
This work is not currently on view.
- Title
The Presentation in the Temple
- Artist
- Date
1652-1657
- Medium
oil on canvas
- Dimensions (H x W x D)
20 3/8 in x 25 in
- Collection Area
European Art
- Category
Paintings
- Object Type
painting
- Culture
French
- Credit Line
Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Edwin Binney, 3rd
- Accession Number
84.52.1
- Copyright
public domain
- Terms
This painting was made to serve as the model for one of a series of fourteen tapestries illustrating the Life of the Virgin, for the decoration of the chancel of the cathedral of Notre-Dame in Paris. The scene depicts the Virgin kneeling beside St. Joseph, who carries a basket of doves to be offered in sacrifice. Simeon, a holy man promised sight of the Messiah before dying, holds the Christ child.
Poërson and Le Sueur worked with the leading artist of the day in Paris, Simon Vouet (1590– 1649). Poërson's personal interpretation of Vouet's dynamic style of animated figures in twisting poses can be seen in his more grounded, heavier body type.
- Exhibitions
2003 The Triumph of French Painting: 17th Century Masterpieces from the Museums of FRAME Portland Art Museum; Birmingham Museum of Art; Meadows Museum
