Artwork

De ongelovige Thomas

De ongelovige Thomas, by Bernard Van Orley, oil, 1513
De ongelovige Thomas, by Bernard Van Orley, oil, 1513

De ongelovige Thomas is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Bernard Van Orley. It dates from 1513 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.

About this work

Overview

De ongelovige Thomas (The Unbelieving Thomas) is a 1513 oil painting by Bernard van Orley, a prominent Flemish artist of the Northern Renaissance. The work is characterized by its religious subject matter and is now part of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates a biblical scene, focusing on the central figure of Thomas, distinguishable by his pink robe, surrounded by a group in a courtyard setting. The composition guides the viewer's attention to Thomas, emphasizing his role in the narrative.

Technique & Style

Van Orley's use of oil paint allows for vivid coloration, with Thomas's pink robe serving as a focal point. The style blends Northern Renaissance attention to detail with influences from Italian Renaissance, achieved without the artist having traveled to Italy.

History & Provenance

Created in 1513, the painting is attributed to Bernard van Orley, known for his versatility in oil painting, tapestry design, and stained glass. It is currently housed at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.

Context

De ongelovige Thomas reflects the artistic exchange of the time, with Van Orley incorporating Italian Renaissance elements into his Northern European style, contributing to the broader Northern Renaissance movement.

De onthoofding van de H. Matthias
De onthoofding van de H. Matthias, Bernard Van Orley

Artist & collection

Portrait of Bernard Van Orley

Artist

Bernard Van Orley

Bernard van Orley (between 1487 and 1491 – 6 January 1541), also called Barend or Barent van Orley, Bernaert van Orley or Barend van Brussel, was a versatile Flemish artist and representative of Dutch and Flemish…

Frequently asked questions

Who painted De ongelovige Thomas?

De ongelovige Thomas was painted by Bernard Van Orley in 1513.

Where can I see De ongelovige Thomas?

De ongelovige Thomas is held by Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.

What movement is De ongelovige Thomas?

De ongelovige Thomas is associated with Northern Renaissance.