COURSE DESCRIPTION

The Low Countries witnessed a flourishing in the arts in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, with the emergence of distinctive styles that continue to delight us today - Jan van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden, Hieronymus Bosch, Hans Memling and the Bruegel dynasty are but a few of the great artists of this period. Their legacy is exceptional, from the development of oil painting to the emergence of a recognisably modern style of portraiture, and new types of paintings, such as the landscapes and genre scenes that remain with us with us today. This course takes you into the world of these artists, exploring their works in detail and the tumultuous history of which they were a part.

COURSE CONTENT

Session 1: Painting under the Dukes of Burgundy – Van Eyck to Memling

The Dukes of Burgundy took control of the Low Countries in the late 1300s, and Bruges, already the richest port in northern Europe, quickly became the centre of their wealth and power. In this session, we explore art in Flanders at its apogee, when artists such as Jan van Eyck and Rogier van der Weyden became two of Europe’s most influential artists during the rule of Philip ‘the Good’. We find in their works new visions of power, both divine and earthly, and a new dignity afforded to more ordinary life at home, in public and in worship. We then follow the transformation of the arts in the region, through masters such as Gerard David and Hans Memling, to the end of the 15th century.

Session 2: Painting under the Habsburgs – Bosch and the Bruegels

Calamity struck the Low Countries at the end of the fifteenth century – the great port of Bruges silted up, and the mostly benevolent reign of the Burgundian dukes came to an end, bringing war, the Habsburgs, and the beginnings of religious conflict. In this session we explore some of the different responses by artists to the turbulence of economic crises, civil war and religious conflict. Despite the range of conflicts, we see artists creating their own unique styles for a new open market, such as Bosch and Patenir, and others use their art as a vehicle for social commentary and criticism, such as Pieter Bruegel the Elder.

LECTURER

Dr Nick Gordon is a cultural historian and holds a PhD in history from the University of Sydney. His research into medieval and Renaissance Europe has won numerous academic awards and scholarships, including the University Medal in history from the University of Sydney, and has been published in prestigious peer-reviewed journals. Nick has over 15 years’ experience as a lecturer to university and public audiences.

COURSE STRUCTURE

2 x 1.5 hour sessions. Each session includes an interactive lecture and time for questions and discussion.