What is the Ghent Altarpiece?
Q: What is the Ghent Altarpiece?
A: The Ghent Altarpiece, also known as Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, is a very large and complex Early Flemish polyptych panel painting. It was commissioned by the rich merchant and financier Joost Vijdt for his and his wife's private chapel.
Q: Who made the Ghent Altarpiece?
A: The altarpiece was begun by Hubert van Eyck, who died in 1426 while work was underway. It was completed by his younger brother Jan van Eyck.
Q: How many panels make up the altarpiece?
A: The altarpiece has a total of 24 framed panels that make up two views, open and closed.
Q: What is depicted on the opened view of the altarpiece?
A: On the opened view of the altarpiece, Christ the King is shown between the Virgin Mary and John the Baptist in an upper row. On weekdays, when it is closed, it shows an Annunciation of Mary and donor portraits of Joost Vijdt and his wife Lysbette Borluut.
Q: What does lower row of central panel show?
A: The lower row of central panel shows adoration of Lamb of God with several groups in attendance overseen by dove which represents Holy Spirit.
Q: Was there writing on original frame saying something about Hubert van Eyck?
A: Yes, there used to be writing on original frame saying that Hubert van Eyck "greater than anyone" started altarpiece but Jan van Eyck - calling himself "second best in art" - finished it in 1432.
Q: What happened to one part (panel) from original version during Reformation period ?
A: During Reformation period one part (panel) from original version known as Just Judges was stolen in 1934 which has never been found since then .
