THE MASTER OF FLÉMALLE
Master of Flémalle (Robert Campin) (c. 1375 – 26 April 1444)
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The Master of Flémalle is a seemingly unidentified artist however, many people think its Robert Campin, who was
also a Flemish painter at the time.
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He was of crucial importance for the birth and the beginnings of Early Netherlandish painting.
He had a fascination with the natural and domestic world
Mérode Altarpiece, ca 1425-1426. Oil on wood panel
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LEFT PANEL
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Kneeling patrons who
probably
commissioned the
painting
dress like middle class
The man seems to be
looking towards the
middle painting
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MIDDLE PANEL
RIGHT PANEL
Possible annunciation scene
angel Gabriel and Mary are painted here
This Annunciation painting is one of the first that is actually
depicted to being completely indoors
Note the extreme details of the Flemish household
Notice how the table is purposely painted inaccurately
(according to perspective) in order to show more detail of
what’s on the table
Both Mary and Gabriel have no halos
 Joseph is making a
mousetrap in his
carpenter’s shop
 Not directly involved
with the Annunciation
scene
 Joseph is also depicted
without a halo
SYMBOL
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“Triptych” (Three paintings connected by hinges)
painted in a realistic style
proportions and sense of space weren’t accurate
There is a large focus on detail, especially in the Flemish
household depicted in the middle panel.
His technique was to combine translucent oil overlay on waterbased opaque pigments. This technique allowed him to show
great detail
MEANING
The spring scenery in
the left panel &
winter scene in the
right
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Mary’s virginity
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The Holy Spirit
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The Madonna Lily in
the vase
Tiny Jesus carrying a
cross on his back
Extinguished candle
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God has taken human form, rather than existing as a
divine being
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Mouse trap
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Jesus’ human appearance was to fool and trap the devil
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Sword-shaped law
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Refers to weapon that St Peter used to cut off Malchus’
ear while Christ was being arrested
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Tools on table
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The Passion of Christ
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Log
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The cross
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Stick
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Crown of thorns
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If both are true, then the piece itself symbolizes the time
between March 25th and December 25th (between
Christ’s conception and birth) This means it is a Nativity
CHARACTERISTICS
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Less decorative colour
schemes
Realistic style
Subdued hues
Attention to detail and clarity
Use of oil paint
Focus on religious aspects
Focus on close observation,
rather than correct
proportions