The Ghent Altarpiece (1432)

On May 6, 1432, the great altarpiece for St. John’s Church in Ghent was completed and unveiled, a crowning work now known as the Ghent Altarpiece. Begun by Hubert van Eyck and finished by his brother Jan, it was commissioned by the devout patrons Joos Vijd and Lysbette Borluut for the worshiping life of their city. St. John’s Church—later St. Bavo’s Cathedral—became the setting where ordinary believers could behold a painted witness to the gospel with uncommon clarity.

Jan and Hubert van Eyck

Hubert’s vision laid the foundation, and Jan’s painstaking skill brought it to completion. Their realism, luminous color, and careful detail were not mere display; they served a spiritual purpose. In an age when many learned the faith as much by sight as by reading, the altarpiece became a kind of visual catechism, drawing the mind toward truth and the heart toward reverence. The brothers’ labor shows a quiet heroism: disciplined craftsmanship offered to God, patient excellence placed at the service of the Church.

Joos Vijd and Lysbette Borluut

The patrons stand as an example of stewardship and public faith. Their commission was not meant to glorify themselves, but to adorn the place where prayers were sung, sins confessed, and grace proclaimed. By funding sacred art for a local congregation, they invested in the spiritual formation of neighbors and children yet unborn, reminding believers that generosity can be an act of worship.

The Lamb and the Worship of Heaven

At the center is the Lamb of God, lifting the gaze to the cross and its victory. Scripture’s testimony is made visible: “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). The gathered figures around the Lamb echo heaven’s song: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12). The panels call worshipers to awe, repentance, and hope—assuring the contrite that redemption is real, and reminding the faithful that heaven’s worship begins even now.