Gospel in Art: The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Presentation of the Virgin in the Temple, by Pietro Testa, 1641-43 © The Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 21 November 2025
Matthew 12:46-50

At that time: While Jesus was still speaking to the people, behold, his mother and his brothers and sisters stood outside, asking to speak to him. But he replied to the man who told him, 'Who is my mother, and who are my brothers and sisters?' And stretching out his hand towards his disciples, he said, 'Here are my mother and my brothers and sisters! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.'

Reflection on the painting

Today's feast of Mary's presentation in the temple celebrates her lifelong dedication to God. From the very beginning, Mary was set apart for God's purposes, and this commitment prepared her to become a living temple far greater than the magnificent temple in Jerusalem! While the Jerusalem temple was revered as the place where God dwelt in a special way, Mary herself became the vessel through whom God entered the world. Her womb was the temple to bring Jesus into the world.

When we hear the term "presentation" in a religious context, we often think of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple in Jerusalem, which is the fourth Joyful Mystery of the Rosary and celebrated on 2nd February. However, today, we honour the memorial of the Presentation of Mary. This observance, which dates back to at least the eighth century, commemorates Mary's dedication to God from a young age. She responded fully to God's will, making her ready to become the temple of God's Son when the time came. We, too, are invited to follow God's will, so that, like Mary, we might carry the Lord's presence to others.

'The Presentation of the Virgin in the Temple' by Pietro Testa is a monumental canvas (323 x 226 cm.) created for the Church of Santa Croce dei Lucchesi in Rome. Pietro Testa, a Baroque artist known for his highly theatrical, dramatic compositions, brings the scene to life with a blend of architectural grandeur and emotive detail. Mary is shown ascending the temple steps, guided by priests, as she approaches the sacred space. Her figure is so small in stature compared to the vast temple architecture and lavishly dressed temple-goers. The large figures almost look intimidating to little Mary. Mary is portrayed with dignity and innocence. Little white flowers are scattered on the steps where she walked. Mary's parents, Saints Anne and Joachim, are painted in the bottom right corner. The use of light and shadow, hallmarks of the Baroque style, draw attention to the young Mary, at the very centre of the canvas.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/matthew-12-46-50-2025/
and
Video: The Art of Remembrance - From The Monuments Men to The Last Post: www.indcatholicnews.com/news/53644