The Transfiguration

German 15th Century

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of a religious scene with figures surrounded by clouds and one prominent central figure radiating light. The central figure is depicted standing on a hilly landscape with rays emanating from its body. There are two figures seated on clouds above and three figures on the ground gazing up. All figures are dressed in vibrant robes and have halos. The scene uses bold outlines and vivid colors against a light background, typical of religious iconography. This style resembles medieval religious painters, often seen in illuminated manuscripts and ecclesiastical art.