The Virgin of the Pillar NICHOLAS POUSSIN 1594-1665

 
The complete title of the painting is The Virgin of the Pillar Appears to St. James the Greater.

Nicholas Poussin was born in June 1594, and died on November 19, 1665; a French painter, he was the founder and greatest practitioner of 17th century French classical painting. His work embodies the virtues of clarity, logic, and order. Until the 20th century he remained the dominant inspiration for such classically oriented artists as Jacques-Louis David and Paul Cézanne.

He spent most of his working life in Rome except for a short period when Cardinal Richelieu ordered him back to France as Painter for the King.

The story of Our Lady of the Pillar, Zaragoza, Spain dates to 40 A.D. Tradition says that St. James the Apostle journeyed to Spain to spread the Gospel and was already there in the year 40 A.D. when he paused to pray beside the River Ebro with seven of his disciples. Our Lady, who was still living in Jerusalem, was at the same time praying for the success of his missionary endeavors when she appeared to St. James. He and his disciples all shared in the beautiful vision that was accompanied by celestial music and a radiant light. After words of encouragement and a request for a chapel, the Blessed Mother gave him the small jasper column on which she stood as evidence of her appearance.

Supported by the vision and the tangible evidence of its authenticity, St. James spread the Faith throughout Spain which is now under his patronage. After being Martyred, he was buried at Santiago de Compostello, where his shrine attracted more pilgrimages by far than did those of the other Apostles.

The chapel that the Virgin requested was soon built over the place of the apparition but was eventually destroyed, as were several succeeding replacements. The pillar survived, as did the ancient statue that had been placed upon it. In fact, the statue survived the invasions of various conquerors: the Romans, Goths, Moors, Muslims and Vandals. It likewise witnessed the invasion of more peaceful throngs including prayerful pilgrims, all the kings of Spain, Queen Blanca de Navarra in 1433, and numerous Saints including St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross and St. Ignatius of Loyola.

The present church dates from the seventeenth century.





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