AGNES’s galleries are closed 13–30 November for exhibition turnover.
Scheduled public programs are still ongoing.

00:00
/
00:00
Brugghen, Hendrick ter
The Weeping Virgin
1621 (bust) and 1629 (other elements)

While the Virgin Mary is often considered the typological redeemer for the sinful Eve, Hendrick ter Brugghen’s representation of her alludes to her role as a grief-stricken mother. When Christ was an infant, the prophet Simeon predicted that Mary would suffer the loss of her son so that humankind would be saved (Luke 2:34-35). The cross in the background refers to this prophesy. Mary’s rigid profile, sober expression and clasped hands evoke her fortitude in the face of such tragedy.

 
Brugghen, Hendrick ter
The Hague, Netherlands1588–Utrecht, Netherlands 1629
The Weeping Virgin
1621 (bust) and 1629 (other elements)
Oil on panel
77.0 x 62.0 cm
Gift of Alfred and Isabel Bader, 2014
57-001.06

Subscribe to our “This Week at Agnes” e-newsletter to stay abreast of events, news and opportunities at the art museum.