“Madonna at the Fountain” is an exquisite oil painting on wood created by Jan van Eyck in 1439. This religious painting, representative of the Northern Renaissance movement, measures 19 x 22.2 cm and is part of the collection at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, Belgium.
The artwork depicts the Madonna tenderly cradling the Infant Jesus, wrapped in a blue robe that contrasts against the richly detailed backdrop. A fountain stands to the left, its water symbolizing purity, while two angels hover in the background, holding a luxurious cloth behind the Madonna, enhancing her divine status. The scene is meticulously rendered with delicate brushstrokes, showcasing van Eyck’s mastery in handling light, texture, and intricate details. Each element of the composition comes together to evoke a sense of serene divinity and maternal affection, characteristic of the religious themes prevalent in Northern Renaissance art.
