In art historical terms, the Passion Flower has appeared in many prints and paintings, including the mysterious painting of Madonna and Child by Joos van Cleve. Flowers in painting have been used for symbolism for many years and understanding what a flower means will give clues to what a painting portrays. The inclusion of a Passion Flower in this Madonna and Child painting refers to the Crucifixion and the Passion of Christ story in which the Virgin Mary shed all her tears. It is also a symbol of the purity of the Christian faith.
This painting was not the first record of the Passion Flower in art. The Moche culture of northern Peru has portrayed the plant and its fruit on ceramic-ware in reference to the banana Passion Flower.
In the Renaissance period, passion flowers were a popular subject in botanical illustrations, with artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Albrecht Dürer, and Hans Weiditz creating detailed and accurate depictions of the plant. These illustrations were not just decorative but also served as scientific records. In the 19th century, passion flowers became popular in decorative arts such as ceramics, textiles, and wallpaper designs. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors of the flowers were well-suited to these mediums, and they were often used to create decorative motifs in a wide variety of designs. In addition to being a subject in botanical and decorative art, passion flowers have also been used in religious art. The name "passion flower" comes from the Christian symbolism associated with the plant, with the various parts of the flower representing different aspects of the crucifixion of Jesus. As a result, passion flowers have been used in religious art to symbolize the passion and sacrifice of Christ.