French schoolchildren were once taught that “writing is drawing” with fountain pens. The Musée du Louvre’s restoration of Jan Van Eyck’s masterpiece, ‘The Madonna of Chancellor Rolin,’ reveals new insights and theories. The painting, created around 1430, has sparked new hypotheses after extensive restoration and studies.
Accompanying the panel’s return is a rich exhibition at the Louvre, contextualizing the work. Curator Sophie Caron describes the painting as more of a book than mere artwork. The placement and design of the piece invite viewers to engage with it in a unique way, revealing hidden details and an abstract image on the reverse side.
One intriguing theory suggests that the key to interpreting the painting lies in the figures portrayed, particularly Van Eyck and the viewer. The purpose of the artwork, commissioned by Nicolas Rolin, was to convey moral and religious messages, symbolizing good governance and salvation.
Ideal city
The painting, intended to be a spiritual guide for Rolin, showcases a cityscape symbolizing utopia and piety. The exhibition provides a unique perspective on Van Eyck’s masterful work, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in its intricate details and hidden meanings.