Artwork

Baptism of Dymphna, with the Death of Dymphna’s Mother Represented in the Background

Baptism of Dymphna, with the Death of Dymphna’s Mother Represented in the Background, by Goswin van der Weyden, oil, 1504
Baptism of Dymphna, with the Death of Dymphna’s Mother Represented in the Background, by Goswin van der Weyden, oil, 1504

Baptism of Dymphna, with the Death of Dymphna’s Mother Represented in the Background is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Goswin van der Weyden. It dates from 1504 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting, created in 1504 by Goswin van der Weyden, is a representative work of the Northern Renaissance. It is part of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the baptism of Dymphna, a saint, with a pastor officiating the ceremony. In the background, a scene shows Dymphna's mother dying near a castle, suggesting a narrative connection between the two events.

Technique & Style

The artist employed a range of colors, including pink, blue, and gold, to create depth and texture. The use of light and shadow contributes to the overall mood of the scene, characteristic of the Antwerp school's style, influenced by Goswin van der Weyden's heritage.

History & Provenance

Goswin van der Weyden, active in Antwerp from 1455 to 1543, was part of a tradition established by his grandfather, Rogier van der Weyden, and other Brussels-trained artists. The painting is now held in the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Goswin van der Weyden

Artist

Goswin van der Weyden

Goswin van der Weyden or Goossen van der Weyden (1455–1543) was a Flemish Renaissance painter active in Antwerp.