An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Tommaso di Folco Portinari (1428–1501); Maria Portinari (Maria Maddalena Baroncelli, born 1456)Hans Memling
Netherlandish, Seligenstadt, active by 1465–died 1494 Bruges
ca. 1470
(.626, Tommaso) overall 17 3/8 x 13 1/4 in. (44.1 x 33.7 cm), painted surface 16 5/8 x 12 1/2 in. (42.2 x 31.8 cm); (.627, Maria) overall 17 3/8 x 13 3/8 in. (44.1 x 34 cm); painted surface 16 5/8 x 12 5/8 in. (42.2 x 32.1 cm)
Painting
Oil on wood
European Paintings
Bequest of Benjamin Altman, 1913
In this captivating diptych by Hans Memling, we see two figures, Tommaso di Folco Portinari and Maria Portinari, portrayed in a moment of quiet reflection. The artist's delicate attention to detail draws our eyes to their expressions, which convey a sense of solemnity and contemplation.
Tommaso's hands are gently clasped in prayer, suggesting a deep spiritual connection and an aspiration toward divine grace. His expression is serious, yet there’s a softness in his gaze that invites viewers to ponder his thoughts. On the other side, Maria’s posture is slightly more relaxed, but her gaze remains focused, as if she is contemplating her own inner world.
The rich colors of their garments, particularly Maria's deep reds and the elegant black of her headdress, contrast elegantly with the dark background, emphasizing their figures. The intricate necklace she wears adds a touch of opulence, indicating her status, while also hinting at her connection to both earthly and spiritual worlds.
The meticulous craftsmanship of Memling not only highlights their physical appearance but also encapsulates the emotional states they embody. This artwork is a testament to the profound introspection common in Renaissance portraits, inviting us to reflect on the inner lives of its subjects and the spiritual context of their existence. Each detail serves to strengthen the narrative of contemplation, making this piece not just a portrait, but a window into the soul.
About the artist
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