This boldly planned and finely executed series is composed of three tapestries. The name of the designer of the cartoons is unknown, but he was evidently inspired by the Italian Renaissance. The figures are anatomically correct, and many of them were copied from well-known pictures.
No. 1 shows Hercules upholding the world, and bears the inscription, Magna Virtus sed Alienæ obnoxia.
No. 2 represents Atlas bearing the Universe on his shoulders.
No. 3 represents Ferdinand and Isabella enthroned as monarchs of the whole world.
STORY OF THE HOLY VIRGIN. BY VAN EYCK
PLATE 1
1. JESUS WITH HIS MOTHER