The Story Unfolds
After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven."
Story Summary
Jesus ascends to heaven, promising to return and sending the Holy Spirit.
Masterpiece Showcase
Artwork Details
"The Ascension of Christ"
Andrea Mantegna
c. 1460
Tempera on wood
Uffizi Gallery, Florence
Curator's Insights
About the Art
Mantegna uses dramatic foreshortening to show Christ ascending, with disciples gazing upward in wonder and loss.
About the Artist
Andrea Mantegna was a master of Early Renaissance perspective and classical form, creating powerful religious imagery.
Historical Context
This work represents the Renaissance fascination with perspective and the challenge of depicting the divine.
Techniques Used:
Symbolism:
- Ascending Christ shows return to heaven
- Disciples' upward gaze shows longing
- Clouds represent divine mystery
Interactive Art Adventure
Look Closer
- Look up at Jesus ascending into the clouds
- See the disciples' expressions of wonder and sadness
- Notice how Mantegna made you feel like you're looking up too
Creative Spark
Lie on your back outside and look up at the clouds. Draw or describe what shapes and movements you see.