Assumption of the virgin is a masterpiece work of art, a large oil painting, found in the Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari in Venice. It was done by the artist Titan. The art depicts several events in three layers. The Apostles are represented in the bottom section. They are staring at the Virgin Mary who is soaring between them and God while riding a cloud and encircled by celebrating and dancing cherubim. There is also another cherub holding the crown of the Holy Glory next to God who is waiting for her (Rosand).This work of art is part of the renaissance paintings which were meant to be read immediately understood by their modern viewers. Today however, the meaning is frequently lost to us. Titian's altarpiece was more of an understanding of theme rather than subject. This altarpiece has many levels of meaning. It is both a response to the theological debate of the Holy Conception which an issue hotly debated in the Cinquecento and also about the Assumption of the Virgin. The story is told that when the apostles came to bury Mary, they were astounded to get there and witness her assumption into heaven. Titan's work
is his interpretation of this event. The realms of heaven and earth are integrated in this masterpiece. It shows the Virgin's rise into heaven. An angel waits with her crown and God looks lovingly toward her, prepared to receive her into her place in heaven. It is not an accident that the earth has very little representation. The only representation it has is the apostles who look amazed by this incredible event standing on firm ground. Mary's grave has not been highlighted in this painting for theological reasons. Her rise towards God is clear by the sweeping arm gestures as well as the representation of drapery and direction of her glance. The leitmotiv of their heavenly and loving relationship is brought out by the look of joy and wonder on the face of the Virgin whose eyes are focused on God. His look of love and compassion directed toward her clarifies it (Goffen).