Cornelis Engebrechtsz.: Triptych with the lamentation of Christ with saints and donors (1508-1510)

(Museum De Lakenhal, Leiden, The Netherlands)

A magnificent painting by the Dutch painter Cornelis Engebrechtsz. (1462-1527). This Triptych is a good example of storytelling on these kind of paintings. In the center is the passion of Christ depicted. In the background the crucifixion and on the foreground the lamentation of Christ. Christ is surrounded by the typical group: the three Mary's on the left, John the apostle, Mary the virgin, Mary, Mary Magdalene (on the right with jar) and Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. On the left and right side of the center panel are 6 scenes of the sorrows of Mary. Left: the presentation of Christ in the temple, the flight to Egypt and Christ among the Doctors. On the right are the scenes:  the road to Calvary, the crucifixion and placing the body of Christ in the tomb. The right panel shows the kneeling Augustine monk Jacob Martensz. Schout - he was the rector of the Mariënpoel monastery in Leiden and commissioned the painting. Behind Jacob Martensz. Schout are two saints: the apostle James the Great as a pilgrim and saint Martin. On the left panel is an unknown woman. The woman is usually identified as either the mother of Jacob Martensz. Schout or his sister Margaretha Martensdr. As the woman is shown on the most important place in the triptych (the heraldic right of the religious scene) it is more plausible that she is the mother of Jacob Martensz. Schout by honoring her by giving her pride of place. Behind the woman are also two saints: saint Cecilia of Rome with organ, sword and falcon and Mary Magdalene. Painting from 1508-1510.