3-035-462 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

The Virgin Mary with Saints Thomas Aquinas and Paul, about 1335. Probably intended for a small chapel, this triptych shows the Virgin Mary in the centre flanked by Saint Thomas Aquinas and Saint Paul. On the left panel Saint Thomas Aquinas wears the Dominican habit and holds a book of his writings. On the right panel, Saint Paul turns toward the Virgin and holds his symbol of martyrdom, the sword. In the centre, the Virgin Mary wears a rich deep blue cloak made from ultramarine or lapis lazuli, a very precious and expensive pigment. A pattern of intricate marks called tooling, punched into the gold, defines the halo around her head. The background of the panels is covered with a thin layer of gold leaf, but the impression is of solid gold, meant to honour the holy figures depicted. As if she is extending into our space, the Virgin Mary reaches over the marble parapet with her right hand. This gesture symbolizes the holy Mother's power and mercy, and her unique position to serve for humans as a compassionate link to God.