Madonna of the Church

In the center of the painting stands the majestic looking Madonna, clothed in a large blue cloak, with the Child in her arms. This is magnified against the background of a church, perhaps suggesting the omnipotence of the two figures. The gold crown on the Madonna shines against the duller background of architecture, projecting an image of magnificence. Ostensibly, such a depiction of the Madonna and Child has biblical significance, and was intended to convey a religious message. In the background lies the crucifix, which is illuminated by an abundant amount of light that shines in from the top windows. This is resonant with Christian beliefs and hint at the hope and redemption that Christ can offer. However, the presence of the Madonna and Child suggests an incoherence in this painting, as the simultaneous presence of both the crucifix and the Child defies reality and temporality. This seems to build on the magnificence of the Madonna figure in the foreground, making it seem phantasmagorical. Moreover, the depiction of this figure in a greater scale seems to make the figure jump out from the painting. The figure almost seems to be superimposed on the background, and gives the impression of being removed and on a different plane from the background. Yet, this notion is once again being contested with the gaze of the Child. The line of vision of the child can be extended to the Madonna and then to the crucifix. This reinforces the importance of these two figures, and provides a connection between the two apparently disconnected planes. Furthermore, the painting is framed in a way that suggests that the viewer is looking into it through a window, once again implying detachment. As such, the viewer is twice removed from the crucifix, and can only gain limited access to the painting through the window. The color gradient of the painting -- darkness in the foreground to the radiance shone on the crucifix -- seems to suggest a path that the viewer must take towards Christ. The figure of the Madonna and Child therefore takes on a symbolic significance as the intermediary between the viewer and the Crucifix, which represents redemption. One must go through the figure to gain redemption. Thus, it is indubitable that this painting advocates Incarnation and Redemption, and Van Eyck brings this out through the skilful use of symbolism and lighting.