The conquest of virtuosity and the new love of landscape

Although the Renaissance is often associated with Italy, it also flourished in Northern Europe. The Flemish School incorporated the new painting techniques into its own style and themes, with revolutionary, successful and original results. Flemish artists reflected the splendour of cities, their values and the importance of an emerging bourgeoisie that demanded a new type of art.  

From Van Eyck to Patinir, this session analyses the distinctive features of the Flemish Renaissance, including its meticulousness, naturalism, delight in beauty and unprecedented love of landscape. Painting in Flanders ceased to be medieval in order to rival Italian artists in the pursuit of virtuosity.

Course leader: María Corral.