London's National Gallery purchases a painting by an unknown artist for $20M
3 days ago
- #Art History
- #Renaissance Art
- #National Gallery
- The National Gallery acquired a mysterious altarpiece, 'The Virgin and Child with Saints Louis and Margaret and Two Angels,' for over $20m.
- The artist remains unknown, with debates on whether they were Netherlandish or French.
- The altarpiece was previously owned by descendants of Henry Blundell and kept in Dorset.
- It was likely commissioned for the abbey of Tronchiennes in Ghent, Belgium, where it was recorded in 1602.
- The painting features unusual iconography, including a slobbering dragon and a scatological depiction of a putto farting.
- The composition includes symbolic elements like a goldfinch (symbol of martyrdom) and nail studs (alluding to the Cross).
- Dendrochronology dates the oak panel to around 1500-10, aligning with stylistic analysis.
- The altarpiece is in excellent condition after conservation efforts.
- Specialists remain divided on the artist's identity, with no consensus yet.
- The painting will be displayed in Room 53 at the National Gallery starting 10 May.