Jan van Eyck’s St. Barbara is a well-known piece of artwork done by the Netherlandish artist that dates back to 1437. It is an excellent example of metal point drawing, as it has been created using thin layers of wire on paper. This particular work has dimensions measuring 16 3/8 x 2 3/8 inches, and is currently located in the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, Belgium.
While the artwork may appear to be finished, this painting has been disputed whether it was intended to be a preparatory piece or an actual finished piece. Despite these speculations, Jan van Eyck preeminent in creating art that broke artistic conventions at the time. Consequently, his work still remains relevant and admired today for its technical finesse and boldness.
St Barbara is not the only artwork done by Van Eyck worth noting; his portrait of Jan de Leeuw from 1436 is another prime example of a magnificent painting from Van Eyck’s repertoire. Filled with vivid imagery and faithfully rendered details, this painting displays a distinctive sense of realism that captures the viewer’s attention and admiration for many years to come.
