S'Hertogenbosch, Netherlands 2019

The Netherlands ‒ land of infinite possibilities for day trips to interesting villages, towns, and cities. The city of 'S-Hertogenbosch, better known as Den Bosch, was on my agenda. Mild curiosity about painter-artist Hieronymous Bosch (ca.1450-1516) motivated me, and where better to learn about him than the Jheronimus Bosch Art Centre in his native city.

The Netherlands has many renowned Renaissance artists but this is one I knew nothing about other than the vaguest notion that he created fantastical, sometimes scary figures. Probably nearly everyone has chanced upon a scene from his The Garden of Earthly Delights at some time, or The Last Judgement, perhaps even without knowing it. The Art Centre does not have original paintings; instead it features high quality reproductions for the purpose of being able to view the full opus in one place. But the Centre has more ... from his "wondrous world" as they call it.

The venue is inspired: formerly St James (Sint Jacobus) Church, the gallery occupies most of the interior. Many of the church's original, traditional art works have been left in place, a study in contrasting styles and spirit. Although religious subjects and biblical references were his forte, Bosch had his own inimitable additions.

The Centre also offers art education programs, painting courses, special exhibits, choral concerts, and a replica of Bosch's workshop (he had assistants and family members working for him). Guided tours or self-guides are available.

The Garden of Earthly Delights takes centre stage. I learned that the Dutch name of the triptych is Der Garten der Luste which seems more to the point of humanity's fall from grace. Certainly art critics have not been able to interpret the meanings of many unique symbols and details used by Bosch. Demons and imps, the seven deadly sins, follies, absurdities, are scattered through his visions of heaven and hell.

Centre Panel, Der Garten der Luste

One detail, centre panel

Bosch came from a family of painters and in his lifetime his works were widely sought, bringing commissions from the aristocratic and wealthy of Europe. Triptychs were popular. Clients would be discreetly painted in. What little is known about the man himself comes from his membership in, and the archives of the Brotherhood of our Lady. His penchant for often including unexpected, whimsical figures prompted the gallery to have three-dimensional models made.

From up in the choir loft one gets a wider perspective.

Then there is the church tower, overlooking the city, one view toward the neighbouring Cathedral of St John. It was a drizzly day.

Even some of the city canals evoke the spirit of Bosch. Clearly, his boundless creativity struck a deep chord in his contemporary world. His satire is not so far from the endemic corruption being exposed today.

© 2019 Brenda Dougall Merriman