The Ghent Altarpiece
Autumn 2012 sees work begin on the restoration of the Ghent Altarpiece (The adoration of the Mystic Lamb) by the Brussels-based Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage. The Ghent Altarpiece is probably the best-known masterpiece of the Flemish Primitives. It was completed in 1432 and painted by Jan van Eyck and his older brother, Hubert. The work was commissioned by Joos Vijd, a senior alderman of the city of Ghent.
The work itself will be carried out at the Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent over a period of five years. Yet, to mark the occasion of this unique restoration, an important exhibition is being staged to focus on this masterpiece at the Caermersklooster Provincial Cultural Centre. So although the public will not be able to view the Lamb of God itself in its entirety for a while in its usual surroundings (St. Bavo’s Cathedral), visitors will be able to learn more than ever before about this work of art during this exceptional period of its life.
St. Bavo’s Cathedral Ghent © www.lukasweb.be – Art in Flanders vzw, foto Hugo Maertens.