Gothic and Pre-Renaissance Paintings

The Mérode Altarpiece (c. 1427) consists of three panels: the left panel, the center panel and the right panel. The left panel was created by Roger van der Weyden who was known as Campin's most gifted student. It depicts a man known by the name of Peter Engelbrecht and his wife kneeling before an opened wooden door. There is a man in the background that you can only see if you are not looking at the center of the panel. This panel was created at a different time than the center panel since there are numerous layers of paint. There is a shadow behind the man standing in the background which tells me the sun is facing all three people. Campin created the center panel. The center panel dictates Gabriel informing Mary that she will be the mother of Christ. We see one symbolic piece in this panel such as the brass laver which signifies Mary's purity. Another symbolic piece in this panel is the Madonna lily that is found in the pitcher. The light appears as if it is facing them since we see shadows on the folds of her dress and his clothing. The right panel was created by Campin and is my favorite. This panel dictates Joseph working on various tasks that signify the passion of Christ. These symbols include the leather strap in his hand and the thorns lying on the table. The shadows in this room are so heavy that even if you did not know the history you would see a dark, room that leaves you feeling uncomfortable. At the same time it's also kind of a soothing to see the dedication in his face as he forms the leather. Love this piece of art!