Jan van Eyck, The Virgin of Chancellor Rolin

Chapter 13: Crisis and Renaissance (1340-1492)

"Van Eyck Portrays the Virign and Chancellor Nicolas Rolin as if they were contemporaries sharing a nice chat. Only the Angel, who is placing a crown on the Virgin's head, suggests that something out of the ordinary is happening." Pg. 427

Art produced during the renaissance, sought to portray individualistic experiences, and highlight the innate beauty and allure of the natural world. In the background one can see the beautiful expanse of the countryside with the water and trees. There is also a religious presence in this piece because of the angel in the background who is placing a crown on the virgin's head. This is meant to signify her holy "pure" presence, even though she has birthed a child. Because the piece is labeled "Jan van Eyck, The Virgin of Chancellor Rolin," the woman in the picture is the holy mother Mary, who had a son by means of god, but not of her husband, thus maintaining her virginal status. The baby's right hand is outstretched as means to bless the chancellor, which is presented in many paintings during this time period. The renaissance lead way to larger Christian events like the crusades.

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