The Ascension refers to Christ's ascent into heaven 40 days after his Resurrection. The scene is commonly depicted in art, with Giotto providing an early example in the Arena Chapel, Padua (1305). Here, Christ stands on a cloud with arms extended and gradually disappearing into the heavens. At either side are angels who accompany him, while below are the witnesses to the event, including the Virgin Mary. In Pietro Perugino's version (1496-1498; Lyon, Musée Municipal des Beaux-Arts), Christ ascends in a mandorla surrounded by seraphim and musical angels, while Tintoretto's Ascension (1578-1581; Venice, Scuola di San Rocco) is a more believable rendition, with Christ balancing himself on substantial clouds convincingly supported by foreshortened angels.
Historical dictionary of Renaissance art. Lilian H. Zirpolo. 2008.