The Louvre, one of the world’s most prestigious museums, has meticulously restored “The Virgin of Chancellor Rolin”, the only work by Jan van Eyck in its collection. After two years of painstaking work, this painting has regained its splendor and now takes center stage in an exhibition that unveils part of the Flemish master’s hidden oeuvre.
Rediscovering Van Eyck: The exhibition, titled “Rediscovering Van Eyck,” not only showcases the restored masterpiece but also includes five other paintings by the artist. Jan van Eyck, whose production has survived to this day in just fifteen works, is honored in this exhibition. In addition to the paintings, the exhibition features around 60 pieces, including period paintings, sculptures, and illuminated manuscripts.
The Virgin of Chancellor Rolin, painted nearly six centuries ago (around 1430), was in a state of deterioration. Covered in thick yellow varnish, it was challenging to appreciate the details, color palette, and volumes of the figures. Exhibition curator Sophie Caron explains that the restoration process involved thorough analysis using X-rays and infrared imaging to assess the condition of the oak wood panel on which the work was painted.
This painting has an intriguing feature: it was not intended to hang on a wall but was also painted on the reverse side, with a skillful imitation of veined green marble. Originally destined to be part of a funerary monument, it was meant to be visible from both sides. Hence, its format is almost square (69 x 71 centimeters), which was unusual for the period.
Nicolas Rolin, the chancellor of the Duchy of Burgundy, commissioned this work to use as a portable altar during his travels and later incorporate it into the tomb he built in the church of his hometown of Autun, in northern France. During restoration, it was discovered that beneath the painting lay a preliminary drawing by the artist. Additionally, specialists removed layers of varnish and restored the back of the panel.
Thus, “The Virgin of Chancellor Rolin” regains its light, color, and attention to detail, allowing visitors to appreciate Jan van Eyck’s mastery and his contribution to Flemish art.
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