The coronation of the Virgin, God the Father above, St Jerome lower right and St John the Baptist lower left

Art Historical Context

This engraving captures the sacred moment of the Virgin Mary’s coronation in heaven, with God the Father presiding above and Saints Jerome and John the Baptist flanking the scene below. Created between 1530 and 1560 after designs associated with Raphael, the composition reflects the High Renaissance ideal of balanced, graceful figures and clear devotional focus. The medium of engraving allowed such religious imagery to reach a wide audience, spreading Renaissance artistic ideals beyond the walls of churches and palaces. Raphael’s influence is evident in the harmonious arrangement and serene expressions, even though the print was likely executed by the anonymous engraver known as the Master of the Die, who specialized in reproducing works by Raphael and his circle in Rome. The inclusion of Saints Jerome and John the Baptist underscores themes of wisdom, penance, and prophetic witness, inviting viewers to reflect on the heavenly hierarchy and the intercession of the saints. Measuring just over 13 by 9 inches, this intimate print from the Metropolitan Museum’s collection demonstrates how engraving techniques could convey both spiritual depth and delicate detail, making complex theological subjects accessible to 16th-century viewers.