Over time, the panels of many diptychs became detached from each other and went on to serve as separate works of art. One of these diptychs presumed to be separated was painted by Jan Cornelisz. Vermeyen. It shows the Liege cardinal Erard de la Marck on the left and the Holy Family on the right.
Between about 1450 and 1550, an unusual form of painting flourished in the Netherlands, called the diptych. This type of art work consisted of two painted panels joined together by hinges, which could thus be shut like a book. Over time, the two panels of many diptychs became detached from each other and went on to serve as separate works of art. One of these diptychs presumed to be ‘separated’ was painted by Jan Cornelisz. Vermeyen. It shows the Liège cardinal Érard de la Marck on the left and the Holy Family on the right.
The two panels were restored in the Frans Hals Museum in 2006/2007, and they underwent thorough technical and art-historical investigation. The crucial questions, of course, were whether or not the two panels actually belonged together and where they originated. The results of this investigation and the restoration are being presented from 27 January to 30 May, along with a selection of prints by Jan Cornelisz. Vermeyen and some other paintings relating to this context. The exhibition was created in close cooperation with the Frans Hals Museum, where a smaller presentation focussing on the restoration of the two panels is now taking place.
Bonnefanten Museum
Avenue Ceramique 250 - Maastricht