The Altar of Our Lady (Miraflores Altar)
circa 1440
Rogier van der Weyden packs an emotional punch in this intimate Lamentation scene, framed perfectly within a Gothic architectural niche. The Virgin Mary, dressed in deep red, cradles the lifeless body of Christ, her face pressed against his in a moment of profound grief, while Saint John and Joseph of Arimathea look on with sorrowful expressions. Behind them, a serene landscape stretches out, contrasting the tragedy in the foreground with the peaceful world beyond, complete with the empty cross standing tall. This panel is actually the central piece of the famous Miraflores Altarpiece, showcasing the artist's mastery of detailed realism and emotional storytelling typical of the Northern Renaissance.
Location: Gemäldegalerie, Berlin