Artwork
Central panel of a Memorial Triptych, formerly called the Gertz Memorial Triptych, with the Lamentation
Central panel of a Memorial Triptych, formerly called the Gertz Memorial Triptych, with the Lamentation is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Hugo Van der Goes. It dates from 1527 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
This central panel of a Memorial Triptych, dated to 1527, is an oil painting by Hugo van der Goes, a prominent Flemish artist of the Northern Renaissance. It is now part of the Rijksmuseum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the Lamentation, a religious scene of mourning over a naked, wounded man (identified as Christ) lying on a cloth, surrounded by five figures engaged in sorrow, prayer, and contemplation.
Technique & Style
Van der Goes employs a somber mood through chiaroscuro, emphasizing light and shadow on the figures. Details such as the spear, clasped hands, and crumpled cloth add depth and sorrow to the composition.
History & Provenance
Originally part of a memorial triptych (previously known as the Gertz Memorial Triptych), the panel's early context was likely funerary or commemorative. Its current location is the Rijksmuseum.
Context
The Lamentation scene fits within a long tradition of religious art depicting the mourning of Christ, a common theme in Christian iconography.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hugo van der Goes (c. 1430/1440 – 1482) was a Flemish painter who was one of the most significant and original Early Netherlandish painters of the late 15th century. Van der Goes was an important painter of altarpieces…
Vienna Diptych
Portinari Triptych
Monforte Altarpiece
Adoration of the Magi (Triptych)
The Mourning of Christ
Adoration of the Shepherds
Trinity Altarpiece
Left wing of a Memorial Triptych, formerly called the Gertz Memorial Triptych, with nine male Donor Portraits with Saint John the Evangelist (inner), and Saint Peter (outer)
