In the context of San Zaccaria Altarpiece, discuss the Sacra conversazione of the Subject.
The sacra conversazione (sacred conversation), which was originally developed in Florence and the popularized in Venice, is a genre of religious devotional works that shows the Virgin Mary with the Christ child upon a throne, surrounded by saints and angels which united them all into one space of harmony. The sacra conversazione is marked by the bright, vibrant colors in the San Zaccaria altarpiece, and was painted with an intent to create a beautiful space of worship. Each figure represented is in a different time and space; the altarpiece was a mutual meeting for all. Moreover, the figures of the altarpiece are shown in a calm, meditative state; all motion has stopped, calling the viewer to pause for prayer or reflection. The unity of the altarpiece brings a kind of silent communication; the angels signify transcendence and the trumpets represent harmony. Bellini was also known for painting different renditions of the sacra conversazione , the San Zaccaria Altarpiece was the last work in which he used this genre.
Sacra conversazione San Zaccaria sacred conversation sacra conversazione Venice