In the Presence of Grace

A Reflection by Brenda Gribbin on “The Virgin in Prayer” by Sassoferrato 

Take a long look at Sassoferrato’s painting, The Virgin in Prayer. Let your eyes drink in the patterns and colors. Sit quietly with Mary. Notice how the light falls. Peer into the darkness and search the shadows. Listen intently. How does she make you feel?

When I first saw this painting, my response was a quick gasp, followed by a long exhale with a whispered “Ohhh” tucked inside. I leaned forward, bending toward the image on the screen. My eyes searched for detail, not wanting to miss a single variation of brush stroke or masterful transition between color fields. Anxious to capture every nuance, I wished this had been a first-person viewing. Pacing back and forth in the museum, I would find the optimal viewing spot, where painted surface would evaporate and leave me and The Virgin breathing the same cool, dry air. I have developed a habit of standing with hands clasped tightly behind my back when in the presence of a great painting, lest I forget myself and give docents a reason to break their stance and come charging.  To meet this beauty in person would certainly require a rental chair, pen and paper, and a Bible open to the first chapter of Luke.

How is it possible that paint on cloth evokes a response of kinship and empathy? Surely, God blessed this artist with a unique gift. Giovanni Battista Salvi was born in 1609, in Sassoferrato, Italy. At that time, an artist’s birthplace was often added to their professional name, so we know him as Sassoferrato. He was recognized in his day as a master of romanticized paintings which featured saints and Biblical scenes. An internet search for “Sassoferrato images” reveals this same serene face appearing in dozens of paintings…in most cases with eyes downcast, but sometimes gazing heavenward. Two versions of this particular painting show the figure with a halo, which helps us to understand her as the mother of Jesus.

Where the painting currently hangs in The National Gallery in London, viewers can actually stand face-to-face with The Virgin in Prayer. It is relatively small, approximately 28” x 23”, which means the figure is virtually life size. Graceful lines lead the eye around the painting like a seasoned maître d, bringing attention to beautiful details while leading to the focal point…hands folded in gentle prayer. Even Mary’s eyes are on her hands. The light, coming from high on the left, falls softly on her face, and the reflection from her veil reveals tenderness in her gaze. Hands are fully bathed in this light, cupped submissively, not grasping or clutching. The figures’ posture says this young woman is not praying through an agenda of personal needs, but meekly accepting God’s will and direction. Sassoferrato’s color palette includes ultramarine blue, an expensive pigment, indicating this subject’s high position. Delicate edges on multiple layers of wool and linen let us know she is cherished and protected. Even the velvety dark background seems inviting, not foreboding or barren.

I do feel sisterhood with this young Mary. I recognize her tender youth, admire her courage, and have compassion for the challenges that will come with God’s call on her life. She encourages me to listen for my own call. When I hear it, will I have the courage to say yes? What if He commands action in an area where I feel virginal, inexperienced and incapable? God does call each of us to submit and rely only on Him for wisdom and strength to meet our call. Daily, we must lay down personal agendas and say, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38 ESV  

Mixed-media artist Brenda Gribbin lives in Flower Mound, Texas, joyfully interpreting God’s natural world and telling stories through image making. Contact Brenda.