Artwork
Fragment with the transfiguration of Christ
Fragment with the transfiguration of Christ is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Jan Joest. It dates from 1517 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
Fragment with the Transfiguration of Christ is a 1517 oil painting by Jan Joest, a Dutch painter from the northern Rhineland, depicting a pivotal biblical scene.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates the Transfiguration of Christ, a moment where Jesus’s divine nature is revealed. The subject is conveyed through a bearded figure in a flowing white robe, with a golden halo, raised right hand, and subtle, introspective left hand placement on the chest.
Technique & Style
Joest employed subtle shading and chiaroscuro, where light appears to emanate from within the figure, enhancing the three-dimensional effect of the robe against a soft, clouded yellow background.
History & Provenance
Created in 1517, the work is characteristic of the Northern Renaissance’s detailed realism and religious themes. It is currently part of the Rijksmuseum’s collection.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Jan Joest, also known as Jan Joest van Kalkar or Jan Joest van Calcar (between 1450 and 1460 – 1519), was a Dutch painter from either Kalkar or Wesel (both now in Germany), known for his religious paintings.
