The Immaculate Conception
from 1767 until 1768
Floating amidst a swirl of clouds and chubby cherubs, the Virgin Mary stands triumphant in this dramatic Rococo masterpiece. She balances gracefully on a blue globe, crushing a serpent beneath her feet—a classic symbol of defeating evil—while a dove representing the Holy Spirit hovers above in a burst of stars. Tiepolo, the last great Venetian painter, created this airy, light-filled scene late in his life while working for the Spanish court, bringing his signature theatrical flair to religious subjects. Notice the lilies held by the angel at the bottom, a traditional symbol of purity that ties the whole heavenly composition together.
Location: Museo del Prado, Madrid
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