Artwork

Saint Antony, Abbot Antonius Wydoot and the Lactation of of Saint Bernard

Saint Antony, Abbot Antonius Wydoot and the Lactation of of Saint Bernard is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Pieter Claeissens the Elder. It dates from 1560 and is held in the collection of the Groeningemuseum.

About this work

Overview

This 1560 oil painting by Pieter Claeissens the Elder, a prominent Flemish artist from Bruges, is a triptych exploring religious themes within the Northern Renaissance tradition.

Subject & Meaning

The triptych's panels portray distinct religious figures and scenes: the left panel features a bearded, staff-holding figure (likely Saint Antony), the central panel shows a kneeling figure in prayer (possibly Abbot Antonius Wydoot), and the right panel, though partially obscured, suggests a landscape setting (associated with the Lactation of Saint Bernard).

Technique & Style

Claeissens employed vivid oil paint colors and meticulous textures to create depth and dimensionality. Strategic use of light and shadow guides the viewer's gaze through the composition.

History & Provenance

Created in 1560, the painting is part of the Groeningemuseum's collection, showcased alongside other works by the artist, highlighting his contribution as the first notable figure in a lineage of painters.

Artist & collection

Artist

Pieter Claeissens the Elder

Pieter Claeissens the Elder or Pieter Claeissens (I) (1500–1576) was a Flemish painter of history paintings, portraits and allegorical scenes. He was the first prominent artist in an extended family of artists from Bruges.