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Jan van Eyck and the Optical Revolution: Art in the Duchy of Burgundy: A Three-Part Course with Sabry Amroussi
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In the early 15th century an art historical revolution took place in Europe: fired by the patronage of the Dukes of Burgundy, a group of artists tested the limits of what art could be. With Jan van Eyck as their greatest proponent, they explored the new medium of oil paint and made art so splendid, so realistic, and so emotional that it sent shockwaves through the world.
With masterpieces by Jan van Eyck at its center, this three-part course will explore that revolution, discussing everything from medieval feasts, book illustrations, and sculpture to notorious masterpieces like 'the Arnolfini Portrait' and the 'Ghent Altarpiece'. Expect to be transported to the lavish world of the Burgundians, where artists like Jan van Eyck and Rogier van der Weijden furnished the low countries with spectacular art never seen before. Born and raised in the very region where Jan van Eyck came from, Sabry Amroussi has a unique passion for this art and period. Bringing alive Burgundian weddings, feasts, wars, and newly built monasteries and churches, and sharing the art that was made for them, one comes out this course with a profound appreciation for this often neglected period.
Lecture 1: Introducing the Burgundians
Often seen as building the foundations for the low countries, the Burgundians were quite a bunch. During a crucial period in late medieval history, they ruled a considerable part of Europe, being trendsetters in art, warfare, cuisine, and culture. This first lecture introduces our main protagonists and sites.
Lecture 2: Art & Culture with the Burgundians
Lavish Meals, over the fop parties, beautiful monasteries, palaces, and awesome decorations - leave that to the Burgundians. In this lecture, we will discover all of this, and more, making way for our most important of artists on that scene: Jan van Eyck.
Lecture 3: Jan van Eyck and the Burgundians
The superstar painter of the late middle ages, Jan van Eyck, was court painter to the Burgundians, and pretty much everyone that mattered. His oeuvre is unique, ground shattering, and truly revolutionary. In this final lecture, we will discuss that amazing output and the legacy left today.
Sabry Amroussi is an art historian and writer living and working in Amsterdam. He specializes in the art of the Dutch Golden Age, mainly in the works of Rembrandt and his school, and also has a keen interest in the Jewish history of Amsterdam. He lectures and teaches on both subjects, and gives art historical tours all across Europe. As a true omnivore when it comes to art, culture, and even cuisine, he has worked with and for major museums and collectors, such as the LACMA, Rijksmuseum, van Gogh Museum and the P de Boer collection on Amsterdam. As a guide for Context, he is eager to share this knowledge in real life, always with a big scoop of humor, ofter intermingling art with social life, cuisine, and history.
How does it work?
This is a three-part series held weekly and hosted on Zoom. Please check the schedule for the specific dates and times for each lecture.
Is there a reading list in advance?
Though the course is open to participants with no background in art history, there are suggested readings for further investigation. You will receive this soon after course registration.
How long are the lectures?
Each lecture is 90 minutes long with time for Q&A.
How much is the course?
The course is $105 for three lectures.
Is a recording available?
In general, our courses are not recorded. However, if you need to miss a lecture please let us know in advance and we can arrange for a recording for that session on an individual basis.
This conversation is suitable for all ages.
90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.
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Really engaging overview of Burgundian Art and Jan van Eyck. The first presentation put the work of Jan van Eyck into context with what was happening at the time and the Dukes of Burgundy - essential background. The second built on this and the third showcased the works of van Eyck. Learnt so much from such and engaging and incredibly knowledgeable presenter
Excellent lecturer!
The three lectures were wonderful. Sabry Amroussi has the knack to transmit his enthusiasm and wide knowledge with delightful simplicity, which is the proof that he is a great teacher.
The three lectures were wonderful. Sabry Amroussi has the knack to transmit his enthusiasm and wide knowledge with delightful simplicity, which is the proof that he is a great teacher.