The Ghent Altarpiece is a monumental artwork universally hailed as a masterpiece. Unveiled in 1432, its innovations in oil paint technique helped pave the way for the art of the High Renaissance. Over the centuries, the altarpiece’s panels were stolen, sawed in half, and hidden in a salt mine but thankfully survived! We’ll explore the history and significance of the Ghent Altarpiece from the 15th century to today, celebrating artist Jan van Eyck and encountering Philip the Good, John Calvin, King Philip II of Spain, Napoleon, Hitler, and Monuments Men and Women along the way. Note: Suggested reading: The Monuments Men by Robert Edsel; Stealing the Mystic Lamb by Noah Charney
