The Presentation of Christ in the Temple



5th century
Mosaic
Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome

Candles do not yet figure in this early image of the Presentation, but note the doves at far right. Simeon's hands are covered with his cloak, as specified in the Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew. The scene is in the open air, presumably the Temple precinct, with the tied-back Temple veil at the far right.

More of the Presentation