Is As Vesta Was Descending notable for word painting?

Yes, "As Vesta Was Descending" by Thomas Weelkes is notable for its use of Word painting, a technique where the music reflects the literal meaning of the lyrics. For instance, the rising and falling melodies correspond to the imagery of ascent and descent in the text. This practice enhances the expressive quality of the piece, allowing listeners to experience the narrative more vividly through the music. Overall, Weelkes skillfully employs Word painting to create a dynamic interplay between text and music.