# The Madonna with Canon van der Paele \(details\) [View the canonical artwork record]() ## Artwork - Artist: [EYCK, Jan van]() - Date: 1401-1450 - Technique: Oil on wood, width of details: 7,5 cm \(each\) ## Commentary The reliefs and sculptures on the capitals in the background and on the Virgin's throne all allude to Christ's salvation of humanity. The depictions on the throne of Adam and Eve, Cain killing Abel, and Samson fighting the lion, together with the depiction on the capitals of Abraham sacrificing Isaac, create an Old Testament framework which allows the observer to reflect on the mercy of God, who sent his son, Christ the Redeemer, into the world. Redemption from sin \(Cain killing his brother\) is possible only through the power of faith \(Samson overpowering the lion\). The goodness and grace of God "at the moment of truth" \(Abraham sacrificing Isaac\) serves as proof of the redeeming power and presence of servants of God both celestial \(St. George\) and mortal \(Canon van der Paele\). ## Related artworks - [Annunciation]() - [Annunciation]() - [Crucifixion]() - [Diptych]() - [Last Judgment]() - [Madonna and Child at the Fountain]() - [Madonna in the Church \(detail\)]() - [Madonna in the Church]() - [Madonna with the Child Reading]() - [Man in a Turban \(detail\)]() - [Man in a Turban]() - [Portrait of a Goldsmith \(Man with Ring\)]() ## Attribution [Web Gallery of Art]()