Jan van Eyck was a very popular artist in Flanders.
No-one knows if this is a self-portrait by one of the greatest painter of all time, but it makes for interesting speculation. It could have been a commission.
There is an intensity to the gaze. The features are beautifully captured. And that incredible red chaperon, the fashion headwear of men in the 15th century, is Jan van Eyck showing off his skill.
I used to love van Eyck back in old days, and still do, but we rarely see him today. I am not so besotted with the possible self portrait (above) but Arnolfini and other more complex images.
ReplyDeleteJan Van Eyck is not one of my favourite artists but you do have to admire his technical skill.
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