Ethereal Beauty in the Mérode Altarpiece

Robert Campin’s “Mérode Altarpiece” triptych is considered to be one of the finest Early Netherlandish works in my opinion. Seeing it in person at the Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, was just breathtaking. For, it is truly a magnificent piece of art. According to the MET, the “Mérode Altarpiece” is believed to have been made by Campin and one of his assistants. I, particularly, love the figures and components that stand to symbolize various ideas and metaphors significant in a religious picture. Besides Mary as a crucial element in the depiction of Campin’s annunciation scene, Joseph’s role in the painting becomes equally important from a theological perspective. The inclusion of Joseph, for instance, is a vital element because it signals the start in which strong attention is given to Joseph. Furthermore, Joseph’s trade, as well as the tools with which he works, further expand his theological significance in the painting as a whole. For, they too, become religious entities within their context. I honestly believe that the particular space so well depicted by Campin, along with the elements in it, harmoniously work to create an environment that is reflective of its holy nature.