It is stunning in terms of how much detail was taken to craft this masterpiece. The vast cast of Biblical characters depicted is amazing. You could spend months studying the different characters and details and still not fully grasp the majesty of this piece.
The use of light and shadows, the diverse cityscapes and land formations in the background, and even the specific people are meticulously crafted. Take for example Saint Stephen (the first martyr, stoned in Acts 7:57-60) approaching the altar with the very stones that were used to kill him. When I first learned of Stephens depiction in this painting, I was blown away. And Saint Stephen is in no way a focal point of this piece.
A few years ago, I was preaching to a group of graduating seniors at Davis and used this painting as the focal point of my message. The painting helped to provide the students perspective as they finished their time in college and transitioned to their next phase of life. As the painting continued to resonate with me, I then wrote the below poem.
At the very bottom of this post is a link to a website that contains the Ghent Altarpiece in 100 billion pixels. Check it out
In adoration to the Lamb
Where sin hath lost and grace began
There is no other who is victorious
There is no image that can be more glorious
The goldsmith, blacksmith, politician, and queen
All kneel to the lamb, the lamb that redeems
He doesn't lie on the altar, although he was once dead
He doesn't lie on the altar though his sinless blood was shed
No, the Lamb stands on the altar, alive and well
He stands there majestically, for He has defeated hell
Come to the altar and adore the true king
Come to the altar for He is beckoning
http://closertovaneyck.kikirpa.be
No comments:
Post a Comment