The Virgin Appearing to a Dying Priest

German 15th Century (Augsburg)

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a medieval illustration featuring several figures. In the foreground, a person is lying in a bed, covered with a white blanket. This person is shown from the waist up and appears to be looking towards a group of people standing by the bedside. Their facial features are detailed with wide eyes and hair falling to the side, wearing a white robe with a halo. Next to the bed, four figures are standing, all dressed in flowing robes. One figure has a covered head, resembling a nun's habit, and another appears to be wearing a crown. These figures have serene faces, with hands raised as if in conversation or blessing. Their clothing is detailed and appears typical of the attire from that time. In the background, there is a simple hilly landscape visible through an open window or awning. Below the illustration, medieval text is elegantly written in black ink, with an ornate red letter 'M' starting the passage. The parchment has a textured appearance, typical of medieval manuscripts.