Artwork
Virtue of Patience

Virtue of Patience is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Bernard Van Orley. It dates from 1521 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.
About this work
Overview
Virtue of Patience is a triptych oil painting created by Bernard van Orley in 1521. It is a representative work of the Northern Renaissance, blending regional traditions with Italian influences.
Subject & Meaning
The triptych depicts chaotic scenes across its three panels, with the central panel showing a crowded, distressed group of people, while the side panels display violence and fleeing figures. The work is categorized within the religious genre, though the specific narrative is not immediately clear.
Technique & Style
The painting employs chiaroscuro, using strong light and dark contrasts to create depth and drama. The color palette is muted, with browns and grays dominating. The central panel features a large, ornate structure in the background, adding to the scene's complexity.
History & Provenance
The painting is part of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium's collection. Created by Bernard van Orley, a Flemish artist known for his work in multiple mediums, it reflects his synthesis of Northern European and Italian Renaissance styles.
Artist & collection
Artist
Bernard van Orley (between 1487 and 1491 – 6 January 1541), also called Barend or Barent van Orley, Bernaert van Orley or Barend van Brussel, was a versatile Flemish artist and representative of Dutch and Flemish…
Museum
Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
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