Description
The Last Judgment painting by artist Raphael Coxcie is a Flemish Renaissance masterpiece dating from the 16th century. This impressive 300 x 369 cm piece represents the Last Judgment, a very popular theme at the time, which focuses on the resurrection of the dead and their subsequent judgment by God.
Coxcie's artistic style is highly characteristic, combining elements of the Italian Renaissance with the Flemish tradition. The composition of the painting is highly detailed and full of symbolism, with figures representing both saints and sinners. The coloring is spectacular, with a chromatic range that goes from soft and delicate tones to strong and vibrant colors.
The history of the painting is very interesting, as it was commissioned by Emperor Charles V to decorate the chapel of the royal palace in Brussels. The work was finished in 1550, but it was destroyed in a fire in 1731. However, thanks to a copy made by another artist, the painting could be restored and is currently in the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Brussels.
Some little-known aspects of the painting include the presence of mythological figures, such as the god Mercury and the goddess Venus, who represent justice and mercy respectively. In addition, the central figure of the painting, Jesus Christ, is surrounded by a halo of light that symbolizes his divinity.
In summary, Raphael Coxcie's painting Last Judgment is an impressive work that combines elements of the Italian Renaissance and the Flemish tradition to create a detailed composition full of symbolism. Its coloring is spectacular and its history is fascinating, making it one of the most important works of European artistic heritage.