Question 1 of 3

Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus are depicted traveling through a lush landscape. Joseph, Mary, and Jesus each have a golden halo around their head, and their clothing is trimmed in gold. Soft blue, green, and yellow colors are used for the background scene and other figures.
Book of Hours
by Jean Pichore

The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore

What idea did the halos on the heads of Pichore’s main subjects emphasize?
A. plentiful wisdom
B. exceptional power
C. divine connection
D. extraordinary creativity

C. divine connection

An eighteenth century painting shows a religious leader with upraised arm, standing above a crowd of admirers and looking into the distance. What qualities is the artist communicating about this leader through his position and gestures?

A. power and distinction
B. humility and care
C. empathy and respect
D. peace and gentleness

A. power and distinction

Emperor Napoleon is depicted sitting confidently on a strong white steed. It appears that the sun is only shining on him. The ground and background of the painting are very dark; the soldiers behind Napoleon are barely visible.

1814
by Jean Louis Ernest Meissionier

The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore

Why did painter Meissonier place Napoleon at the front and center of this work of art?
A. to show his small size
B. to show his central importance
C. to show his entire figure
D. to make wise use of space

B. to show his central importance

The halos on the heads of Pichore's main subjects emphasized their divine connection.

To determine the idea emphasized by the halos in Pichore's artwork, we can analyze the symbolism of halos in art history. Halos have traditionally been used in religious art to represent a divine connection or holiness. They typically signify the subjects' close association with the divine or their elevated spiritual status. In this case, the halos around the heads of Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus likely emphasize their divine connection. The answer is C. To confirm this, you can refer to art history resources or consult experts in the field.