Music-making Angels and Eve

Step into the heavenly choir loft of the famous Ghent Altarpiece! On the left, a group of angels is jamming out on a massive pipe organ, harp, and lute, wearing incredibly detailed, heavy brocade robes. Jan van Eyck’s obsession with realism is on full display here, especially in the shiny metal pipes of the organ. To the right stands Eve, looking surprisingly modern and unashamed in her nudity while holding the fateful apple, framed by a stone-like relief of Cain and Abel above her head. This masterpiece is part of one of the most stolen artworks in history, having been hidden from Napoleon and rescued by the Monuments Men during WWII.

Technique: Oil on wood panel

Location: Saint Bavo's Cathedral, Ghent

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