The Ghent Altarpiece in Ghent, Belgium, also known as the 'Adoration of the Mystic Lamb' , was completed in 1432 by the brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck, and in one of the most significant works of Northern Renaissance art. The piece was originally commissioned for the Saint Bavo Cathedral in Ghent, and its intricate details and vivid portrayal of religious themes have drawn admiration for centuries.
The history of the Ghent Altarpiece is as fascinating as the painting itself. Commissioned by a wealthy merchant, Joos Vijd, and his wife, Elisabeth Borluut, the altarpiece was intended as a grand expression of their piety and devotion. The work, which consists of 12 panels, was designed to be a portable altarpiece, with the central panel depicting the Lamb of God, symbolizing Christ, surrounded by saints and angels. Over the centuries, the altarpiece has faced numerous challenges, including theft during the Napoleonic era and multiple restorations. Yet, despite these disruptions, it has maintained its central place in the canon of Western art.
The altarpiece is celebrated for its remarkable attention to detail. Every figure is rendered with beautiful precision, from the vibrant colors of the robes worn by the saints to the meticulously painted architectural elements. The use of light and shadow reveals van Eyck's skillful technique, allowing the viewer to appreciate not only the figures themselves but the delicate textures and lifelike qualities of the scene. In particular, the central panel’s depiction of the Lamb, bathed in light, stands out as a symbol of purity and sacrifice, while the surrounding figures - whether they are saints, angels, or the donors - enhance the narrative and give it depth.
The Lamb of God, representing Christ's sacrifice, is surrounded by scenes of the divine and human realms, illustrating the connection between heaven and earth. The altarpiece is also a work of devotion, designed to inspire worshipers and encourage reflection on religious themes. The panels of the altarpiece depict both the serene and the intense moments of Christian salvation, from the moment of Christ’s sacrifice to the eventual redemption of mankind.
The Ghent Altarpiece, The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, is housed in Saint Bavo's Cathedral in Ghent, Belgium.
Sint-Baafsplein 1, 9000 Gent, Belgium
Opening Hours:
- Cathedral:
- Monday to Saturday: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
- Sunday: 1:00 pm – 5:30 pm
- Ghent Altarpiece Viewing:
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Sunday: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Contact Information:
- Phone: +32 9 269 20 45
- Email:
website: sintbaafskathedraal.be
