Triptych of Adriaan Reins 1480

Hans Memling painted this triptych of Adriaan Reins in the late 15th century, a period marked by significant religious patronage and the rise of wealthy merchant families. The central panel depicts the Lamentation of Christ. Look at the profound grief etched on the faces of the figures surrounding Christ's body – the Virgin Mary, and Saint John the Evangelist. On the left panel, Adriaan Reins himself is depicted in prayer, accompanied by Saint Adrian. The right panel features Saint Wilgefortis, a saint known for her devotion and miraculous growth of a beard to avoid marriage. The inclusion of Saint Wilgefortis, who defies traditional gender roles, and the compassionate portrayal of the suffering Christ, invite us to reflect on themes of identity, sacrifice, and devotion. Memling transforms the expected narrative into a poignant exploration of human emotion and spiritual conviction.