Ruled by a succession of very wealthy Dukes, Burgundy (today parts of France, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium and the Netherlands) produced some of the most important art of the 15th century.
1400 - 1500 (Northern Renaissance)
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Hans Memling, Diptych of Maarten van Nieuwenhove
Diptych of Maarten van Nieuwenhove is one of the most important diptychs of the fifteenth century, both for its innovative subject matter and condition.
Petrus Christus, A Goldsmith in his Shop
We stand on a Bruges street and approach a goldsmith’s shop. Hang on, is that a falcon? Looks like we have company.
Hugo van der Goes, Portinari Altarpiece
This particular artwork perfectly embodies all the things that northern European painters were thought to do best.
Fit for a duke: Broederlam’s Crucifixion Altarpiece
Introducing a lavish altarpiece with vibrant images. Exploring the narrative and visual threads that connect its featured stories.
The question of pregnancy in Jan van Eyck’s Arnolfini Portrait
Van Eyck’s enigmatic and iconic double portrait often prompts the question: is the female figure pregnant?
Rogier van der Weyden, The Crucifixion, with the Virgin and Saint John the Evangelist Mourning
Mary cries and falls into John’s arms. Rogier’s precise observations accentuate the emotional impact of this scene.
Herman, Paul, and Jean de Limbourg, The Belles Heures of Jean de France, Duc de Berry
Open this astonishing book and see how three brothers invented compositional devices to unite text and image.
The Holy Thorn Reliquary of Jean, duc de Berry
This foot-high theatre offers a drama in three acts. A golden thorn claims the starring role.
Workshop of Robert Campin, Annunciation Triptych (Merode Altarpiece)
Look closely—not only is the level of detail here astonishing, but these everyday objects embody religious symbols.
Jan van Eyck, Portrait of a Man in a Red Turban (Self-Portrait?)
“As I can.” On the frame to this portrait, the painter humblebrags—and establishes his place in history.
Claus Sluter (with Claus de Werve), Mourners
Monks, or modern dancers? Robes dwarf these hooded men, but outsized drapery befits their monumental expressivity.
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