The artwork, titled “The Virgin of the Chancellor Rolin (detail)”, was created by the artist Jan van Eyck between the years 1434 and 1436. Executed in oil on wood, this piece is a significant example of the Northern Renaissance art movement. This religious painting, measuring 66 by 62 cm, is part of the series known as “The Rolin Madonna” and is housed in the Louvre in Paris, France.
The artwork depicts a scene of profound spiritual significance. It features Chancellor Rolin, identifiable by his distinctive dress and position of prayer, on the left side of the composition. Opposite him sits the Virgin Mary, adorned in a sumptuous red robe, holding the infant Jesus. The meticulous attention to detail characteristic of Jan van Eyck’s style is evident in the elaborate architectural elements, the texture of the fabrics, and the vibrant landscape that extends through the arches in the background. The serene and formal atmosphere of the scene is heightened by the inclusion of an angel crowning the Virgin, adding to the ethereal quality of the painting. The interplay of light and shadow, along with the rich color palette, exemplifies the mastery of van Eyck in creating a piece that is both devotional and visually captivating.
