Who painted Nossa Senhora da Misericórdia?

Nossa Senhora da Misericórdia was painted by Jan Provoost in 1515.

Where can I see Nossa Senhora da Misericórdia?

Nossa Senhora da Misericórdia is held by National Museum of Ancient Art.

What movement is Nossa Senhora da Misericórdia?

Nossa Senhora da Misericórdia is associated with Northern Renaissance.

Artwork

Nossa Senhora da Misericórdia

Jan Provoost , 1515

Nossa Senhora da Misericórdia is an unspecified painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Jan Provoost. It dates from 1515 and is held in the collection of the National Museum of Ancient Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1515 by the Flemish painter Jan Provoost, this panel illustrates a devotional scene typical of the Northern Renaissance. Executed in oil on panel, the work is presently conserved in Portugal’s National Museum of Ancient Art, where it is catalogued under the title Nossa Senhora da Misericórdia.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure is a seated woman, identified as the Virgin Mary, holding the infant Christ. She is surrounded by a small retinue that includes clerical figures, an angel, and a lamb, symbols that together emphasize themes of compassion, sacrifice and the sorrow associated with the Passion.

Technique & Style

Provoost employs the meticulous detail and vivid coloration characteristic of early 16th‑century Flemish painting. Rich reds, deep greens and gold leaf accents delineate the sumptuous fabrics, while fine brushwork renders the textures of clothing, fur and the lamb’s wool with a palpable realism.

History & Provenance

In addition to his painting career he pursued cartography, engineering and architecture, reflecting the interdisciplinary spirit of his era.

Born in Mons around 1462‑1465, Provoost worked in the artistic centers of Bruges and Antwerp, maintaining several workshops. In addition to his painting career he pursued cartography, engineering and architecture, reflecting the interdisciplinary spirit of his era. The panel entered the National Museum of Ancient Art’s collection in the 20th century, though its earlier ownership remains undocumented.

Context

The composition aligns with the period’s focus on Marian devotion, particularly the motif of Our Lady of Mercy, which highlighted the Virgin’s role as an intercessor for the suffering. The inclusion of a lamb and angel reinforces the theological link between Mary’s compassion and Christ’s sacrificial destiny.