15th Century: Northern Europe and the Iberian Peninsula I

Question 1

What theme did all of the symbols in Flemish art possess?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

Answers may vary. They all had religious meaning.

Question 2

What is a polyptych?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

A polyptych is an altarpiece consisting of many panels.

Question 3

How did Hugo van der Goes create realism in the image above?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

He used atmospheric perspective.

Question 4

What does an altar symbolize in a Christian church?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

focal point of the church

Question 5

What were the most commonly used symbols in Flemish art?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

everyday objects

Question 6

What did people place on the altars?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

relics of the church’s patron saint

Question 7

What is the antependium?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

It is the front surface of a block altar.

Question 8

How does atmospheric perspective create realism?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

Atmospheric (aerial) perspective creates realism by using haze, color shifts, and reduced contrast to show depth and distance.

Question 9

What does the dog represent in the following image? (Hint: The name “Fido” may come from this representation.)

Revolt · Accepted Answer

The dog represents fidelity and loyalty, especially faithfulness within the marriage.

15th Century: Northern Europe and the Iberian Peninsula I Answers