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Jan van Eyck has been called the most famous Flemish painter of the 15th century and the founder of Early Renaissance style in Northern Europe. Though his place of birth and birth date are unknown it is thought that he was born near Limburg, the Netherlands in the 1390’s. Art historians believe that he was taught to paint by his elder brother Huber van Eyck, whom he created the famed “Ghent Altarpiece” with. The two brothers started this piece together, but Jan had to finish it alone after the death of his brother.

Van Eyck served as the court painter for Duke Johann of Bavaria in Hague until 1425, where he restored and painted pictures. After that time he served at the court of Philip the Good of Burgundy where he was not only an artist, but a diplomatic aid as well. From 1430 on, he was also the official painter of the city of Bruges where he lived and worked.

Art historians have credited Van Eyck as being the first artist to ever paint with oils, and that he in fact invented the method. It is also said that he was one of the first painters to sign and date his own work on the frames of the painting. While this theory is under speculation by many, his use of the medium is quite exceptional, and his technique is unmatched by most of his contemporary painters. Not only was he a master in applying a luminous sheen to his compositions, but he also portrayed a mastery of space.

While Van Eyck created a number of stunning and captivating religious altarpieces and paintings, he was also a masterful portrait painter. It is thought that his painting “Man in a Red Turban” is actually a self-portrait.

Jan van Eyck is probably best known for his world famous painting, “Giovanni Arnolfini and His Wife Giovanna Cenami (The Arnolfini Marriage).”

This painting is rife with symbolism, and has been called one of the most complex and original paintings in Western art history. Some say that it was painted to be a document as proof of the wedding between the man and woman. Colors and placement of figures play a large part in the symbolism of the painting as well as purposely placed objects in the room. The little dog in the foreground symbolizes fidelity, while the oranges on the chest may refer to fertility. The cast aside clogs are a traditional symbol of the wedding, and the single candle refers to the light of God. Upon close inspection of the spotless mirror in the background, you can see the reflection of the artist as well as the couple, and above the mirror is the inscription “Johannes de eyck fuit hic, 1434,” translated, “Jan van Eyck was here.” This painting is currently housed in The National Gallery in London, and is an oil on oak wood panel painting.

Today, van Eyck’s work is housed all over the world in public and private collections. Perhaps an unknown portrait, sketch or stolen church panel of his could still be in existence today and perhaps in your own home.

Still wondering about a 15th century Flemish piece in your family estate? Contact us…it could be by Jan van Eyck.