Van Eyck in Detail

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

Van Eyck in Detail opens with a biographical note on the artist and an introductory chapter on the technique of oil painting. Organized by theme, it further encompasses subjects as nature, architecture, daily life, fabrics, glass, jewellery and mirrors, and portraits. Van Eyck's concentrated observation of nature formed an integral part of his innovation of the art of painting. He studied fauna and flora in their natural environment under specific light conditions. The accuracy with which he realised a breath taking convincing realism is based on a thorough understanding of structure and visual perception. It looks as if everything, from the foreground to the horizon, reveals itself in minuscule detail. However, when observed under magnification, it becomes clear that much depends on suggestion. Van Eyck anticipated on the phenomenon, understood today, that the brain completes visual observation. The authors explain besides the significance of details, also the technique of painting in oil that the artist improved, allowing him to achieve his innovative artistic results. Finally, the reader receives a number of suggestions for further reading.

Author Bio

Maximiliaan P. J. Martens is a professor of art history at Ghent University.