Comparing Masaccio And Holy Trinity: Painting By Robert Campin

During the 15th century, Europe started to have different cultural traditions that impacted the type artwork of artwork that was produced. There are several elements that have evolved during this time. Two artworks will be compared so that we will be able to evaluate how various techniques that are used can be used to portray the meaning of the painting as well as how the audience views the scene as well. One of the paintings that we will compare is a Annunciation panel (from the Merode Triptych), which was painted by Robert Campin in 1426. This painting will be compared to Holy Trinity, which was created by Masaccio in 1425. By comparing these two paintings, we will get a sense of what themes and ideals were valued during this time period.

This will revealed through the painters’ artwork and styles of portrayal.

There are several differences between Holy Trinity and the annunciation panel.

Masaccio used a technique called linear perspective. This technique allowed Italian artists to measure space so that all the objects in the painting are in proportion to each other. In this painting, Jesus is put intimately close to the scene by using linear perspective. An illusionistic hole is painted into the painted wall and this makes his portrayal more believable. Masaccio also used the technique of tonal modeling which created believable, almost sculptural figures proportionally related to one another to occupy that space. Both of these techniques helps to create good proportions and make the painting more realistic. Another technique that he uses is stage modeling. This means that the holy trinity is meant to be viewed from below and at a distance, like actors on a stage before an audience. In particular, this approach is based on a more human- centered view, locating a single spectator that is standing at a particular spot. In this painting, Jesus is the focus of the painting. In contrast, the Annunciation panel (from the Merode Triptych), which was painted by Robert Campin uses other techniques that greatly change the way the painting is

viewed. Campin uses a technique called approximate or multiple perspective. This method uses no specific mathematical approach to place the objects. Also, none of the objects are of particular focus and the painting is not meant to be viewed from a certain angle. Campin used this method to create more detail, sharpness texture, and clarity. He also puts a vanishing point, which is placed where the lines congregate, below the first step. Also, throughout the painting, one sees patterns of triangles. This creates the theme of trinity. This is a Northern style that was valued during that time. On the other hand, Campin’s annunciation panel has a perspective that is exaggerated. Instead of a stage model, he uses a mirror model. There is much focus on detail and shows the interaction between religion and people in daily life.

Both of these paintings also utilize different painting techniques to get their messages across.

For example, Masaccio used the medium fresco. It dries quickly and requires the artist to work fast with color broadly applied. This medium enables Masaccio to create generalized forms over the precise details of oil and tempura painting. However, Campin used the oil medium. This gave him the ability to create jewel-like illusions of reality. Campin and others of this era were motivated to paint the external world and all the different facets that create it. On the other hand, Masaccio wanted to create a painting that is more realistic and wanted the people to be able to relate to the art. Also, both artists use light and shadow to highlight and emphasize different parts of the paintings. For instance, Campin lit the room with sunlight and put a focus on Mary’s dress. This lighting causes the dress to turn into a shape of a star. This can symbolize the presence of the star of Bethlehem. Many other religious symbols are found in the painting. The eyes are not drawn to a particular object. This is not the case in Masaccio’s painting. He does not particularly shine light on one object. Even though the eyes are drawn to Jesus, we get a sense of balance between all the objects. This portrays faith and it’s mysteries as well as the perfection symbolism that comes with God. Masaccio creates a three dimensional like form even though it is on a two-dimensional surface. The painting shows

the religious views of the holy trinity. This is validated by the presence of God, Jesus, Mary, and John. All these components are important holy figures, which send the message that by believing in Christ, it is possible to cross the bridge between an existence on earth and eternal life above.

Both of these paintings send across a religious message and meaning. However, the messages are different. Masaccio used a simplest and elegant way to portray the holy while Campin more heavily emphasized symbolism through detail and various objects in his annunciation painting. Masaccio and Campin had different goals but they still impacted the audience in a great way.

These two paintings also set different moods for the audience. In the holy trinity we get a sense of anguish from the expressions of the people in the painting. They all hold a face that holds contempt and makes one feel ill as ease. However, Campin’s painting gives a more peaceful feeling despite the somewhat cluttered space. Mary is reading a book and she seems to be a peace while the angel is telling her something. There are different religious portrayals between these two pieces.
In Early Italian Renaissance, 15th century, the competitive spirit of kingdoms of Italy contributes to art. The Artists in Florence, 15th century wanted to communicate one’s status, wealth, and humanist knowledge. Masaccio uses the stable geometric form of the triangle to create the Italian Renaissance ideal of bi-lateral symmetry, balance, and harmony. This way, he was able to portray the humanistic view of the subject at hand. On the other hand, Campin wanted to add lots of symbolism to get his message across. Even though the proportions were unrealistic, it gives the audience an alternative perspective of the world. He creates a illusion through his use of rich colors, lighting, and oil pigments. There are many differences between the two paintings but they are both artists from the same time period. They created religious art works that the people could relate to in different ways.