Seven Famous Figures from Ancient History c. 1442

"Seven Famous Figures from Ancient History" is a miniature painting by Barthélemy van Eyck, a Flemish artist active during the mid-15th century. The work, created around 1442, depicts seven historical figures, each identified with their names and a descriptive inscription. The figures are shown standing in profile, with the artist employing a delicate, yet defined, line to depict their clothing and physical features. The use of bright, opaque watercolor pigments highlights the details of their attire, creating a sense of realism and depth. Van Eyck's miniature offers a glimpse into the 15th-century fascination with historical figures and a testament to the artistry of Flemish manuscript illumination.