Our Lady of the Scapular (painting)

Abstract

Painting of Our Lady of the Scapular was originally located in the Brethren's altar (the fraternity established in Zembrzyce on 8th August 1666). The depicted scene is an illustration of the tradition of the Carmelite Order according to which on the night of 15 to 16 July 1251, the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Simon Stock in the Carmelite Monastery in Cambridge, holding a scapular in her hands and conveying the Caramelite monk information about the privileges that those who will wear it, will experience. The painting of Our Lady of the Scapular being discussed, belongs to an interesting group of works depicting handing over of scapular to St. Simon Stock which is attended also by another saints - taking into account that St. Teresa of Ávila is also presented in the picture. St. Teresa of Ávila was a Carmelite (nun) and a mystic who lived in the 16th century Spain. The mystic was canonized in 1622 and together with St. Mary Magdalene de Pazzi is regarded as one of the main patrons of the Carmelite Order. Moreover, members of the Brotherhood in Zembrzyce are presented in the background of the painting.