Hans Memling
Born: 1430, Mainz, Germany
Died: August 11, 1494, Bruges, Belgium
Characteristics of Artist
Memling was known to create artworks that
depicted the following characteristics:
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Quiet and serene atmosphere/mood
Natural movements
Paintings are open constructions with clearly articulated
space; figures are placed like sculptures or figurines.
Landscape/ architectural elements serve only as theatrical
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props
Compositions based on careful symmetric balance
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Human figures are of standard type
- They appear tall and emotionless expression
- Faces are oval, with long narrow noses and high
foreheads
Bright colour choice (almost Mediterranean)
- Promotes the effect of space
- Creates a glowing effect
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Textural detail of various fabrics
Painted with a lot of detail requiring great knowledge and
skill
Sometimes artwork is confused with that of Jan van Eyck
Analysis: Madonna and Child with Angels
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Memling, Madonna and Child with Angels, ca1480. Oil on panel
Painting explains the importance of Christ's mission on earth
Woman is virgin Mary sitting on a throne holding baby Jesus, a few angels gather around to adore the child
Around the arch is a carved vine of grapes referring to the wine of the Eucharistic rite
Baby Jesus extending his arm to reach out for the apple; symbol of Original Sin
Jesus’ approach of acceptance foreshadows his future sacrifice on the cross
On the crystal and porphyry columns stand David, as an ancestor of Christ, and Isaiah, one of the prophets who foretold the Virgin Birth
Symbolism:
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Attitude of acceptance foreshadows his future sacrifice on the cross
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Angel offering orange (fruit of redemption) is dressed in a dalmatic (liturgical vestment worn by a deacon during high mass)
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Carved vines of grapes refers to wine of the Eucharistic rite
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Red is the colour of the extremes, representing love, seduction, violence, danger, anger, as well as adventure
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Memling often honored Madonna by placing an oriental carpet under her throne, representing royalty
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The castle in the open field background represents power and protection
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The church in the distance represents the house of God and the body of Christ
Works cited
Andrew W. Mellon. “Madonna and Child with Angels.” National Gallery of Art. National Gallery of Art,
Washington, 2013. Web. 9 April 2014.
Dirk de Vos. “Memling, Hans.” Oxford Art Online. Oxford University Press, 2007.Web. 9 April 2014.
Gerald F. Brommer. Discovering Art History. Davis Publications, Inc.,1997.Print.