Artwork
Portrait of Jan III, First Count of Egmond (1438–1516) and his wife Magdalena van Werdenburg, Countess of Egmond (1464–1538)
Portrait of Jan III, First Count of Egmond (1438–1516) and his wife Magdalena van Werdenburg, Countess of Egmond (1464–1538) is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Master of Alkmaar. It dates from 1510 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Rendered on wood, this double portrait exemplifies the Northern Renaissance style.
This painting, titled Portrait of Jan III, First Count of Egmond and his wife Magdalena van Werdenburg, was created in 1510 by the artist known as the Master of Alkmaar. Rendered on wood, this double portrait exemplifies the Northern Renaissance style. It depicts Jan III, First Count of Egmond, alongside his wife, Magdalena van Werdenburg, offering a glimpse into the appearance of prominent figures of the early sixteenth century.
Subject & Meaning
The artwork presents two distinct portraits, each framed within an arch. On the left, Jan III appears in a dark robe with a fur collar and hat, holding a small, unidentified object. His wife, Magdalena, is depicted on the right, wearing a black gown, a white head covering, and a red patterned fabric across her lap, her right hand grasping a green item. These details likely signify their status and personal attributes.
Technique & Style
Executed with a focus on realism, the painting meticulously renders the subjects' attire and accessories, reflecting the detailed approach characteristic of early Netherlandish portraiture. The artist employs a restrained color palette, predominantly using earth tones and deep, dark hues. This stylistic choice contributes to the solemn and dignified presentation of the sitters, aligning with the aesthetic sensibilities of the Northern Renaissance.
Context
The Master of Alkmaar, an anonymous Dutch painter, was active in the region around Alkmaar during the early sixteenth century. His artistic identity is primarily associated with a series of panel paintings from the church of Saint Lawrence in Alkmaar, dated 1504, which are now housed in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. This portrait of the Egmond couple further illustrates his work within the Northern European artistic landscape.
Artist & collection
Artist
The Master of Alkmaar was a Dutch painter active around Alkmaar at the beginning of the sixteenth century.
Triptych with the adoration of the Magi (centre panel and inner wings), St Antony Abbot (outer left wing) and St Adrian (outer right wing)
Portrait of Magdalena van Werdenburg (1464–1538), Countess of Egmond and wife of Jan (1438–1516), First Count of Egmond;
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