Virgin and Child with Canon van der Paele facts for kids

The Virgin and Child with Canon van der Paele

The Virgin and Child with Canon van der Paele is a famous painting made by the artist Jan van Eyck around 1434–1436. It shows a man named Joris van der Paele, who paid for the painting to be made. He is shown with several important saints. In the middle of the painting, the Virgin Mary sits on a throne holding baby Jesus. The scene takes place inside a round church, where the throne is placed where the altar would usually be. Many people think this painting is one of van Eyck's best works, calling it a true "masterpiece".

What is The Virgin and Child with Canon van der Paele?

This painting is a large oil on wood panel artwork. It was created by Jan van Eyck, a very important painter from the Netherlands. The painting is known for its amazing detail and bright colors. It shows a religious scene with real people and saints.

Who was Jan van Eyck?

Jan van Eyck was a famous painter from the 15th century. He was known for his incredible skill in using oil paints. He could create very realistic textures and light in his paintings. Many art experts believe he helped develop the use of oil paint.

Who was Joris van der Paele?

Joris van der Paele was a "canon" at a church in Bruges, Belgium. A canon was a priest who was part of a group of clergy serving a cathedral or church. He was a wealthy and important person. He ordered this painting to be made for the church. This kind of painting, where the person who paid for it is shown, is called a donor portrait.

What Does the Painting Show?

The painting shows the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus. She is sitting on a grand throne. On the left side of the painting, Saint Donatian stands. He is the patron saint of the church where van der Paele worked. On the right, Saint George is shown in shining armor. He is presenting Joris van der Paele to the Virgin Mary.

The Setting of the Painting

The scene takes place inside a church. The artist made the church look very real. You can see the details of the architecture, like the columns and arches. The light in the painting also looks very natural. It seems to come from windows, making the figures look solid.

Important Details in the Artwork

Van Eyck included many small, important details. For example, you can see the reflections in the armor of Saint George. Joris van der Paele is holding a prayer book and wearing glasses. These details make the painting feel very lifelike. They also show van Eyck's amazing skill.

Why is This Painting Important?

This painting is important for several reasons. It shows how skilled Jan van Eyck was with oil paint. It also gives us a look into the religious beliefs and art of the 15th century. The painting is still admired today for its beauty and detail. It is considered one of the greatest artworks of its time.

Images for kids

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  Canon van der Paele

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  Detail of Van der Paele's prayer book and spectacles

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  Detail of St. Donatian

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  Detail showing St. George in armour

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  Detail showing the lower right corner of the frame, with Jan's inscribed completion date of 1436, and the donor's crest of arms. A paint gap reveals plant fibres to the right of the join.

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  Adriaen Isenbrandt, Mass of St Gregory, 1550, Museo del Prado

See also

In Spanish: Virgen del canónigo Van der Paele para niños