Classic Examples of Christian Art

In the past, some have questioned the validity of the artist's Christian expression in some of these paintings. However, the artist's own spirituality is not important. For if God can speak through Balaam's donkey, He can certainly speak through an artist! Is truth being expressed? This is the heart of the matter.

The detail in these paintings is truly fantastic, if not inspired. Here are five examples by Jan van Eyck and Rogier van der Weyden. A special magnifier has been provided. Use your browser's "Back" button to return to this page.

The Virgin of Chancellor Rolin by Jan van Eyck
The Madonna with Canon van der Paele by Jan van Eyck
St. George and the Dragon by Rogier van der Weyden
The Ghent Altarpiece:Adoration of the Lamb, by Jan van Eyck
Giovanni Arnolfini and his wife, by Jan van Eyck

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    Christian art is one example of how theology can be put into action. The beliefs of the artist are placed upon the canvas. The artist's point of interest might be upon Jesus, The Virgin Mary, or, a prominent person. Whatever the case, it might tell us something about the theology that the artist pursued. As mentioned elsewhere in the site, everyone follows some type of theology, and acts upon it, even if it is only a theology of self absorption.