Great Works of Art: The Seilern Triptych by Robert Campin
Three-part masterpiece that illustrates the narrative of the Passion of Christ
A triptych painting is an image with three parts. As with this altarpiece triptych, the three parts are typically hinged together so that the outer sides can be folded in and out, “closing” or “opening” the image.
The Seilern Triptych was painted by an artist who has been identified as Robert Campin from Tournai. Painted in 1415, it is one of the finest masterpieces of Early Netherlandish painting.
Robert Campin, who was also called The Master of Flémalle, painted his works in the precise style that was popular at the time in Netherlandish art, where the drapery of clothing is shown in vivid, almost lurid detail. Because of the extraordinary precision of the work, it may appear like a large object. In fact it’s only just over a meter wide when fully unfolded.
Look closely and you’ll see woven through the golden background a motif of vine branches. Not only does the grape vine provide a decorative pattern which has the effect of coalescing the three parts of the painting into a more compelling whole, the very meaning of the painting is underlined by this symbol.
