Bruges and the Renaissance: from Memling to Pourbus

This study, which accompanies the important exhibition of the same name (August-December 1998) in the historic Sint-Janshospitaal in Bruges, focuses on two dates: 1494 and 1584, when Hans Memling and Pieter Pourbus died in Bruges respectively. Against the background of the tension between 'continuity and renewal', the artistic developments in Bruges within that period are examined in various essays. To this end, several renowned domestic and foreign specialists worked together. The result is an exceptionally detailed and multifaceted overview of 16th-century Bruges art, in all its aspects.

For example, especially for the exhibition, several paintings were examined for the first time with infrared reflectography, a technique that makes it possible to look through the layers of paint and thus expose the underdrawing. In addition to the material aspect of the artistic production, the broad social context was also examined up close.

Bruges and the Renaissance. From Memling to Pourbus will undoubtedly remain a milestone in the study of this 'forgotten period' in Bruges art for several decades to come.

The publication consists of two complementary volumes: a general catalogue with essays and various other contributions, and colour illustrations of all the works on display (Part I, Catalogue); and a volume with the scholarly catalogue notes for each work, accompanied by
black and white images (part II, Notes).