Artwork

Diptych of Jan du Cellier

Diptych of Jan du Cellier, by Hans Memling, oil
Diptych of Jan du Cellier, by Hans Memling, oil

Diptych of Jan du Cellier is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Hans Memling. It is held in the collection of the Department of Paintings of the Louvre.

About this work

Overview

The Diptych of Jan du Cellier is a two-panel oil painting created by Hans Memling in 1496. It is a representative work of the Northern Renaissance.

Subject & Meaning

The diptych depicts two distinct scenes: the Virgin Mary surrounded by angels in a lush outdoor setting on the left, and a kneeling donor figure accompanied by a monk and a lamb in a rocky landscape on the right. The juxtaposition of these scenes may suggest a devotional or symbolic relationship between the figures.

Technique & Style

The painting showcases Memling's attention to detail, evident in the intricate rendering of clothing, accessories, and the natural environment. The use of oil paint allows for a rich, layered color palette and a sense of depth, with landscapes and atmospheric effects in the backgrounds of both panels.

History & Provenance

The Diptych of Jan du Cellier is now held at the Louvre Museum. Created in 1496, it is a product of the Northern Renaissance, a period of significant artistic innovation in Europe.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Hans Memling

Artist

Hans Memling

Hans Memling was a German-Flemish painter who worked in the tradition of Early Netherlandish painting.