The Virgin of Chancellor Rolin

Nicolas Rolin (1376-1462) was chancellor to Philip the Good, duke of Burgundy. He had Van Eyck portray him sitting opposite to the virgin Mary with child.

Both Rolin and Mary are dressed in splendid gowns. Rolin's jacket is trimmed with fur. An angel holds a crown over Mary's head. The infant Jesus holds a globe in its hand.

Van Eyck situated the figures in the loggia of a palace built in Italian style. The capitals depict stories from the Old Testament, such as the Fall of Man. In the background two figures are seen leaning over a balustrade, thus creating a relaxed atmosphere. Van der Weyden and later Ghirlandaio also used that technique.

The panel has been in the Louvre since 1800. In 2024 a restoration was completed, bringing back Van Eyck's brilliant colours.