Prophet Elijah in the Desert - from the Winged altar in St. Peter in Leuven 1465

Dirk Bouts' "Prophet Elijah in the Desert" (c. 1465) depicts a scene from the Old Testament where the prophet Elijah is visited by an angel in the wilderness. The angel, with large, white wings, offers Elijah a drink, while Elijah rests his head on his hand. The work is noted for its realistic depiction of the figures, their clothing, and the surrounding landscape. The composition is characteristic of the Early Netherlandish style, with attention to detail and a focus on naturalism. The painting is a part of the Winged Altar in St. Peter in Leuven, which was commissioned in the 15th century.