THE MASTER OF

FLÉMALLE (Robert Campin)

By Candace Rosato, Jillian Segovia, Michelle Jachna

ROBERT CAMPIN c. 1375 – 26 April 1444 The Master of Flémalle is a seemingly

unidentified artist many people think its Robert Campin, who

was also a Flemish painter at the time. Crucial importance for the birth and the

beginnings of Early Netherlandish painting. fascination with the natural and domestic

world

Mérode Altarpiece, 1425-1426

MÉRODE ALTARPIECE “Triptych”

Three paintings connected by hinges Oil on wood painted in a realistic style proportions and sense of space weren’t

accurate large focus on detail His technique was to combine translucent oil

overly on water-based opaque pigments Allowed him to show great detail

THE LEFT PANEL Kneeling patrons who

probably commissioned the painting

dress like middle class The man seems to be

looking towards the middle painting

THE MIDDLE PANEL Possible annunciation scene

angel Gabriel and Mary are painted here

This Annunciation painting is one of the first that is actually depicted to being completely indoors

Note the extreme details of the Flemish household

RIGHT PANEL Joseph is making a

mousetrap in his carpenter’s shop

Not directly involved with the Annunciation scene The left panel was

drawing our eyes in

SYMBOLISMSymbol MeaningMadonna Lily in the vase Mary’s virginityTiny Jesus carrying cross on his back

The Holy Spirit

Extinguished Candle God has taken human form, rather than existing as a divine being

Mouse trap Jesus’ human appearance was to fool and trap the devil

Sword-shaped saw Refers to weapon that St Peter used to cut off Malchus’ ear while Christ was being arrested

Tools on table The Passion of ChristLog The crossStick Crown of thorns

CHARACTERISTICS Less decorative colour schemes Realistic style Subdued hues Attention to detail and clarity Use of oil paint Focus on religious aspects Focus on close observation, rather than

correct proportions