Van Eyck to Bosch and Beyond: Early Netherlandish Painting and the Museum

An artistic revolution occurred in Northern Europe in the Early Modern Period (c. 1400-1550). In this course we will look at the innovations generated by such artists as Robert Campin, Jan Van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden, Hugo van der Goes, Hans Memling, Gerard David, and Hieronymous Bosch. We will also explore the impact of the North on the Italian Renaissance, and the early history of collecting. The rediscovery of Early Netherlandish painting is linked to its presentation in museums around 1800. We will examine the interaction between these paintings’ presentation in museums and the reception and scholarship they generated. This course will count as an elective towards the History of Art Major.