#annunciation triptych

[artthatgivesmefeelings]

Robert Campin, workshop (Netherlandish/French, c.1373-1444) Annunciation Triptych (Merode Altarpiece), ca.1427-32 The Cloisters Museum and Gardens, New York The kneeling donor appears to witness the central scene through the open door. His wife kneels behind him, and a town messenger stands at the garden gate. The owners would have purchased the triptych to use in private prayer.

[apah2018]

66. Annunciation Triptych - Robert Campin. 1427-1432 c.e. oil on wood

[apah2018]

66. Annunciation Triptych

Content: Left panel donors and middle-class people kneeling before the holy scene (the wife was added later. Center panel Flemish interior with an annunciation taking place. Right panel carpentry workshop with Joseph pictured. There are many symbols featured in the work including the towel and water that symbolizes Mary’s purity (baptism), THe fireplace is blocked which means the entrance to hell is blocked by the mother of Christ, the flower buds have three petals which mean the Trinity and the unopened bud is the unborn Christ and the lilies symbolize purity, Mary is seated on the floor which means humility, the mousetrap in the workshop is a trap for the devil and, the candlestick is representative of Christ in Mary’s womb.

Context: Used to be called the “Merode Altarpiece”. Paintings were used as aides in prayer and were considered luxury items. Was created during the northern renaissance.

Form: The ground line is rising steeply which makes it look like the figures are too big for the architecture. A very meticulous piece with incredible attention to detail.

Function: Used as a way to humanize the lofty themes. Used for prayer in private homes and to create spiritual significance for everyday objects.