Merode Altarpiece

Painted by Robert Campin in the early 15th century, Merode Altarpiece depicts the angel Gabriel telling Mary about the birth of her son. With the invention of Oil paints, Robert Campin was able to add detail to his paintings that he other wise wouldn't have been able to depict with tempura paints. Oil paints allowed for a revolution in art. Small metaphorical details showed allowed subtle representation of religious figures.
The 3rd triptych on the right, shows Joseph, alone, working as a carpenter. The triptych also shows a mousetrap-- representing Christ is destined from reincarnation. The bait in the mouse trap represents Christ who lures the devil, who seizing the bait, is destroyed. The room that Joseph is in, is much less lavish than the room that Mary resides. Mary's room is elegant to enthrone the mother of Christ.
The light cast upon Mary represents birth and an open book and lily's represent the Virgin. Mary is lying in front of a fireplace and is being greeted by the angel Gabriel who is telling Mary of her new child. The room that Mary is in is the most famous of the three triptych because it shows the Annunciation.


The final of the three triptychs shows the man who has paied Robert Campin to paint this watching the Annunciation. Wealthy Dutchmen often wanted to have themselves represented at noble religious scenes. The Dutchman is in the wake of Gabriel with his wife opening the door to Mary and Josephs house to hear the miracle.

Many critics point out that little is mentioned of Joseph and Mary's marriage in this triptych. Indeed the painting shows Joseph in what looks like another house entirely. Joseph and Mary's marriage is not the point of the Annunciation and should not be represented with weight. The Annunciation is clearly shown, as Gabriel tells Mary of the birth of Christ (just in time for Christmas).