Triptych of Madonna and Child with Angels; Donor and His Patron Saint Peter Martyr; and Saint Jerome

This entire scene appears to glow as if lit by a mysterious light that comes from in front of the figures. Details, like the crystal on Mary’s throne, sparkle in the light. The painting is full of exquisite detail, like the landscape seen through the window in the background. It is a snapshot of 15th century Bruges, a town in Flanders, in what is now Belgium. The skyline of Bruges provides a clue to the date of the painting. Scholars know that the real bell tower in the town of Bruges was altered in 1483, so the painting was made before that time.

Most 15th century Europeans couldn’t read or write, but they learned in church about the saints, and understood religious iconography. The painting is full of hidden symbols and meanings. For instance, the crystal columns in the lower and upper portion of Mary’s throne represent her purity, and the pink carnation in the angel’s hand is a symbol of pure love.