Jan Floreins Altarpiece facts for kids

The Jan Floreins Altarpiece or Triptych of Jan Floreins is a special three-panel painting from 1479. It was created by the famous artist Hans Memling for a brother named Jan Floreins. This altarpiece was made for the Oud Sint-Janshospitaal in Bruges, a very old hospital. Today, you can still see it there as part of the Memlingmuseum collection.

The altarpiece open

The altarpiece closed, showing outer panels of John the Baptist and saint Veronica.

What is the Jan Floreins Altarpiece?

An altarpiece is a work of art, often a painting or sculpture, placed behind the altar in a church. This particular altarpiece is a triptych. A triptych is a special type of artwork made of three panels. These panels are usually hinged together so they can be folded.

The Jan Floreins Altarpiece was painted by Hans Memling in 1479. It was made for Jan Floreins, who was a brother at the Oud Sint-Janshospitaal. This hospital was a very important place in Bruges, Belgium.

Who was Hans Memling?

Hans Memling was a very important painter from the 15th century. He was born in Germany but spent most of his life working in Bruges. Bruges was a rich and busy city during his time.

Memling was known for his beautiful and detailed paintings. He often painted portraits and religious scenes. His works are famous for their bright colors and realistic details.

What Does the Altarpiece Show?

The Jan Floreins Altarpiece has different scenes on its panels. When the altarpiece is open, you can see three main pictures. These pictures tell stories from the Bible.

The central panel shows the Nativity of Jesus. This is the scene where Jesus is born in a stable. The left panel shows the Adoration of the Magi. This is when the three wise men visit baby Jesus. The right panel shows the Presentation of Christ at the Temple. This is when Jesus is brought to the temple as a baby.

The Outer Panels

When the altarpiece is closed, you can see two other paintings. These are on the outside of the panels. One panel shows John the Baptist. He was an important religious figure. The other panel shows saint Veronica. She is known for helping Jesus on his way to the cross.

Where Can You See It Today?

The Jan Floreins Altarpiece is still in the same place it was made for. It is kept at the Oud Sint-Janshospitaal in Bruges. This old hospital is now a museum called the Memlingmuseum. It shows many of Hans Memling's amazing artworks.

See also

In Spanish: Tríptico de Jan Floreins para niños