Renaissance Art History Paper

Renaissance Art History Paper

Transfiguration - Fra Angelico fresco

This fresco by Fra Angelico is located in Cell 6 of San Marco. It represents transfiguration, by definition, “a complete change of form or appearance into a more beautiful or spiritual state.” This is because Christ is foreshadowing his crucifixion. He is standing on a rock in a white gown/robe and has a halo. He also has his arms open to his sides representing his crucifixion. At the bottom of the rock are three of the twelve Apostles leaning against it, Peter, James, and John. They each have different reactions as to what Christ is foreshadowing. John is raising his hand to shield himself from Christ, James is hiding his face as if he is humiliated, and Peter praises Jesus and surrenders. Also at the bottom standing beside Christ are the Virgin and St. Dominic. They are praying and devoting themselves to Christ, as well as acting as mediators. Also at the top of the painting on both sides of Christ are Moses and Elijah. Moses, on the left, represents the law, and Elijah, on the right, represents the prophets. This symbolizes Christ as fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. In addition, the setting of the painting is a mountain. The meaning of this is believed to be God’s manifestation. It is also believed that the mountains represent a highway to the higher world (Heaven). Ironically, in the Old Testament both Elijah and Moses received revelations from Yahweh, the god of the Israelites, on an elevation. Moses received the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai, and Elijah heard God’s voice on Mount Horeb in the “sound of sheer silence.”

The painting also foreshadows Jesus’ resurrection and rise from the tomb. It is shown in his demeanor, and the rock also foreshadows his rise.

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