Immaculate Virgin, sculpture collection Rijksmuseum

The idea that the Virgin was ‘immaculate’ (free from sin) was generally accepted by the Catholic Church only at the end of the 15th century. This depiction of Mary surrounded by symbols of her purity, such as the lily, dates from about that time. The enclosed garden and the mirror allude to her virginity. The panel’s clear symbols and texts inspired worshippers while praying.