Flemish school, 16th-17th centuries

Flemish school, 16th-17th centuries.
"Virgin" and "Christ".
Diptych.
Oil on copper.
Measurements: 13 x 22 cm (open); 13 x 10.5 x 2 cm (closed).

This diptych is an exquisite example of Flemish devotional painting of the late Renaissance and early Baroque. Executed in oil on copper, a medium highly prized at the time for its ability to achieve a smooth, enameled finish, the work is remarkable for its preciousness and brilliant coloring. Its small size indicates that it was conceived as an object of private devotion, designed for intimate and personal contemplation.

The Virgin Mary and Jesus are represented, respectively, with a resplendent crown (her) and a golden border (him) that shimmer against the dark background. Also the faces, of rounded and soft contours, are modeled by the light, echoing the dominance of the prevailing chiaroscuro of the time. Likewise, the details of the clothing (the qualities and textures of the garments) and the candid flesh tones point to clearly Flemish workshops. The faces transmit serenity and recollection, and the effigies are enhanced by a border of golden borders.

The artist demonstrates great technical mastery. The use of copper as a support allows a very fine and precise brushstroke, achieving a smooth and shiny finish that enhances the intensity of the colors. The style combines the Flemish tradition of meticulous detail and realism in the textures with the influences of Renaissance classicism in the balanced composition and anatomy of the figures. Light is used effectively to model the forms and focus the viewer's attention, creating an atmosphere of deep spirituality.