The Dream of Joachim (detail) by Giotto di Bondone (c. 1305)

Giotto painted this great masterpiece, the fresco cycle of scenes from the life of the Virgin and Christ for the private chapel of a wealthy Paduan Enrico Scrovegni between 1303-1311. Although the gospels do not discuss the Virgin’s parents or any other details about her early years, many legends narrate in great detail the story of the early life of Mary. Her parents, Anna and Joachim were said to be a devout couple who unfortunately had no children. The scene known as The Dream of Joachim relates how Joachim, who has been excluded from the temple because of his childless state, receives a vision from God (not shown in this detail). Giotto situates the episode in a stark landscape, where Joachim has found shelter with poor shepherds. Dreams in Jewish and Christian tradition were thought to provide communication between God and men and women. In this case the dream brings a message of great joy to Joachim, in his dream he learns that he and Anna will have a child. He of course could not know that his long awaited daughter Mary would grow up to receive an angel’s tidings that were even more marvellous.

The 2015 Art Guide has been compiled by Claire Renkin, well-known Art Historian and Lecturer at Yarra Theological Union and recorded by Geraldine Doogue, Australian Journalist, Radio and Television Host.

Learn more about the Columban Art Calendar: www.columban.org.au