Lamentation triptych: St. Matthew On reverse: Maria of the Annunciation

Welcome, everyone! Before you stands a captivating piece from the Alte Pinakothek: "Lamentation triptych: St. Matthew On reverse: Maria of the Annunciation," a painting by the renowned artist Joos van Cleve. While the exact date of creation remains unknown, this artwork, measuring 24.5 centimeters wide and 83.5 centimeters high, offers a powerful glimpse into the artist's skill. nn This detail from a larger triptych focuses on St. Matthew. The grayscale image presents him from the knees up, standing within a dark, atmospheric forest. His long white robe, cinched at the waist, is draped with a heavy dark cloak, suggesting both piety and a sense of weight. His posture is contemplative, his head bowed slightly, his expression pensive and melancholic. The soft light and subtle shadows beautifully define the folds of his clothing and the contours of his face and beard. The background forest, rendered with varying shades of gray, creates a sense of depth and mystery, drawing our attention to the saint's quiet contemplation. The overall effect is one of serene sorrow, a fitting portrayal of a saint lost in thought. The reverse side of this panel, we should note, depicts Maria of the Annunciation, adding another layer to the narrative of this fascinating triptych.