Burial of the Virgin (panel 8)
by DUCCIO di Buoninsegna, Tempera on wood, 41 x 55 cm
This scene is on one of the front crowning panels of the Maestà.
In the burial scene the background of deeply indented rocks with small leafy trees evokes the valley of Jehoshaphat where the burial took place. The disciples, grouped quietly round the tomb in attitudes of tender affection, show their heartfelt participation in the sad event, particularly the person on the left who is lifting his hand to his mouth in grief.
The composition is strongly reminiscent of the scene depicting Christ’s entombment.