The Dombild Altarpiece, Cologne Cathedral (Altar of Three Magi) 1445

Stefan Lochner painted this Triptych for the Chapel of Cologne’s Town Hall in the 1440’s, likely using a tempera on wood panel technique. This involves pigment mixed with egg yolk, which creates a fast-drying, durable paint, and adds to the luminous quality of the gold leaf background. The gold isn’t just decorative; it’s integral to the painting's meaning. Applying gold leaf is a highly skilled process, requiring patience, precision and expensive materials like real gold. Gold represents the divine and emphasizes the sacred nature of the scene, while the tempera allows for detailed rendering of figures, fabrics, and faces. This contrast between the ethereal gold and the earthly figures reinforces the religious narrative. The altarpiece would have required a dedicated workshop of skilled artists and assistants, each contributing their expertise. It speaks to the complex division of labor inherent in even the most seemingly individual artistic creations, and the integration of craft and fine arts.