L’Agneau mystique, Hubert et Jan van Eyck
#1 - The Mystical Lamb, Hubert and Jan van Eyck

100 sets - shutters, stories and altarpieces

The 100 most famous triptychs and polyptychs

From The Mystical Lamb to the Garden of Delights, from the Isenheim Altarpiece to the Italian masters: one hundred works where several panels form a single image.

The classification only retains complete and documented sets. No shutter, central panel or fragment is presented as a stand-alone work.

100Complete sets
99Alpha sheets
1Museum notice
0Insulated shutter
TriptychThree main parts
PolyptychSeveral articulated panels
AltarpieceAltar painting and architecture
ReadingFrom detail to whole

The art of multiple images

Why divide a painting into several panels?

The triptych and the polyptych are not simple juxtaposed frames. They organize a reading time, a hierarchy of figures and sometimes several states of openness.

A large altarpiece is understood as a mobile architecture: each shutter modifies what the viewer can see, connect and tell.

This top 100 favors fame, historical importance and coherence between the parties. Existing Alpha sheets are used as a priority; when a work is not proposed, the image refers directly to the corresponding institution.

The 100 triptychs and polyptychs in images

I
Absolute icons

The sets whose image and influence fixed the memory of the triptych and the polyptych.

L’Agneau mystique, Hubert et Jan van Eyck#1
Hubert and Jan van Eyck · Alpha sheet

The Mystic Lamb

Date1432TechniqueOil on panelsCollectionSt. Bavo's Cathedral, Ghent

Classified no. 1, The Mystical Lamb by Hubert and Jan van Eyck is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between panels. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark of the shutter format. THERE dating shown is 1432 and oil on panels technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Jardin des délices, Jérôme Bosch#2
Hieronymus Bosch · Alpha Sheet

The Garden of Delights

Datearound 1490 -1500TechniqueOil on panelsCollectionPrado Museum, Madrid

Classified no. 2, Hieronymus Bosch's Garden of Earthly Delights is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The shutters organize a moral progression where the earthly world, temptation and salvation respond to each other in contrasts. Its place in collections, studies and the great stories of painting makes it a major landmark of the shutter format. Dating indicated is around 1490 -1500 and the oil on panels technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Retable d’Issenheim, Matthias Grünewald#3
Matthias Grünewald · Alpha Sheet

The Isenheim Altarpiece

Date1512–1516TechniqueOil and tempera on panelsCollectionUnterlinden Museum, Colmar

Classified no. 3, The Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Its place in collections, studies and the great stories of painting makes it a major landmark from the flap format. The dating indicated is 1512 -1516 and the oil and tempera technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not offered, the institution's notice.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque Portinari, Hugo van der Goes#4
Hugo van der Goes · Alpha sheet

The Portinari Triptych

Datearound 1475TechniqueOil on panelsCollectionUffizi Gallery, Florence

Classified no. 4, The Portinari Triptych by Hugo van der Goes is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between panels. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark of the shutter format. There dating indicated is around 1475 and the oil on panels technique. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque du Jugement dernier, Hans Memling#5
Hans Memling · Alpha Sheet

The Triptych of the Last Judgment

Date1467–1471TechniqueOil on panelsCollectionNational Museum, Gdaÿsk

Classified no. 5, Hans Memling's Triptych of the Last Judgment is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between panels. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark of the shutter format. The dating shown is 1467 -1471 and the oil on panels technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Chariot de foin, Jérôme Bosch#6
Hieronymus Bosch · Alpha Sheet

The Hay Cart

Datearound 1512 -1515TechniqueOil on panelsCollectionPrado Museum, Madrid

Classified no. 6, Hieronymus Bosch's Hay Cart is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The shutters organize a moral progression where the earthly world, temptation and salvation respond to each other in contrasts. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark of the shutter format. Dating indicated is around 1512 -1515 and the oil on panels technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque Mérode, Atelier de Robert Campin#7
Workshop of Robert Campin · Museum notice

The Merod Triptych

Datearound 1427 -1432TechniqueOil on oakCollectionThe Met Cloisters, New York

Classified no. 7, Le Triptyque Mérode by Atelier by Robert Campin is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between panels. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark of the shutter format. The dating indicated is around 1427 -1432 and the oil on oak technique. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

Image and link: The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

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Le Triptyque des Sept Sacrements, Rogier van der Weyden#8
Rogier van der Weyden · Alpha sheet

The Triptych of the Seven Sacraments

Datearound 1445 -1450TechniqueOil on panelsCollectionKMSKA, Antwerp

Classified no. 8, The Triptych of the Seven Sacraments by Rogier van der Weyden is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between panels. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark in the format shutters. The dating indicated is around 1445 -1450 and the oil technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque Columba, Rogier van der Weyden#9
Rogier van der Weyden · Alpha sheet

The Columba Triptych

Datearound 1455TechniqueOil on panelsCollectionAlte Pinakothek, Munich

Classified no. 9, Rogier van der Weyden's Columba Triptych is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between panels. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark of the shutter format. There dating indicated is around 1455 and the oil on panels technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque de Dresde, Jan van Eyck#10
Jan van Eyck · Alpha Sheet

The Dresden Triptych

Date1437TechniqueOil on panelsCollectionGemäldegalerie, Dresden

Ranked No. 10, The Dresden Triptych by Jan van Eyck is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between panels. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark of the shutter format. There dating shown is 1437 and the oil on panels technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque de la famille Braque, Rogier van der Weyden#11
Rogier van der Weyden · Alpha sheet

The Braque family Triptych

Datearound 1452TechniqueOil on panelsCollectionLouvre Museum, Paris

Classified no. 11, The Triptych of the Braque family by Rogier van der Weyden is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between panels. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark of the format flaps. The dating indicated is around 1452 and the oil technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque Stefaneschi, Giotto#12
Giotto · Alpha Sheet

The Stefaneschi Triptych

Datearound 1320TechniqueTempera and gold on woodCollectionVatican Pinacoteca

Classified no. 12, Giotto's Stefaneschi Triptych is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark of the flap format. Dating indicated is around 1320 and the tempera and gold technique on wood. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not offered, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an autonomous work.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque de San Giovenale, Masaccio#13
Masaccio · Alpha Sheet

The Triptych of San Giovenale

Date1422TechniqueTempera and gold on woodCollectionMasaccio Museum, Cascia di Reggello

Classified no. 13, Masaccio's The Triptych of San Giovenale is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Its place in collections, studies and the great stories of painting makes it a major landmark flap format. The dating indicated is 1422 and the tempera and gold technique on wood. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated flap is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque des Offices, Andrea Mantegna#14
Andrea Mantegna · Alpha Sheet

The Uffizi Triptych

Datearound 1460TechniqueTempera on woodCollectionUffizi Gallery, Florence

Classified no. 14, Andrea Mantegna's Triptych of Offices is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a unique space. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark in the shutter format. There dating indicated is around 1460 and the tempera technique on wood. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Polyptyque de la Miséricorde, Piero della Francesca#15
Piero della Francesca · Alpha Sheet

The Polyptych of Mercy

Date1445–1462TechniqueTempera and oil on woodCollectionMuseo Civico, Sansepolcro

Classified no. 15, The Polyptych of Mercy by Piero della Francesca is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a unique space. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark from format to format shutters. The dating indicated is 1445 -1462 and the tempera and oil on wood technique. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Polyptyque Averoldi, Titien#16
Titian · Alpha Sheet

The Averoldi Polyptych

Date1520–1522TechniqueOil on panelsCollectionSanti Nazaro e Celso, Brescia

Classified no. 16, Titian's Averoldi Polyptych is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Its place in collections, studies and the great stories of painting makes it a major landmark of the format flaps. The dating indicated is 1520 -1522 and the oil technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque des Frari, Giovanni Bellini#17
Giovanni Bellini · Alpha Sheet

The Frari Triptych

Date1488TechniqueOil on woodCollectionBasilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, Venice

Classified no. 17, Giovanni Bellini's Le Triptyque des Frari is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a unique space. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark in the shutter format. There dating indicated is 1488 and the oil on wood technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Polyptyque de saint Vincent Ferrier, Giovanni Bellini#18
Giovanni Bellini · Alpha Sheet

The Polyptych of Saint Vincent Ferrier

Datearound 1464 -1470TechniqueTempera on panelsCollectionSanti Giovanni e Paolo, Venice

Classified no. 18, The Polyptych of Saint Vincent Ferrier by Giovanni Bellini is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a unique space. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark from format to format shutters. The dating indicated is around 1464 -1470 and the tempera technique on panels. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque de Moulins, Jean Hey#19
Jean Hey · Alpha Sheet

The Moulins Triptych

Datearound 1500TechniqueOil on woodCollectionMoulins Cathedral

Classified no. 19, Le Triptyque de Moulins by Jean Hey is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Its place in collections, studies and the great stories of painting makes it a major landmark flap format. The dating indicated is around 1500 and the oil-on-wood technique. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque de Seilern, Robert Campin#20
Robert Campin · Alpha Sheet

Seilern's Triptych

Datearound 1415 -1420TechniqueOil on woodCollectionCourtauld Gallery, London

Classified no. 20, Robert Campin's The Seilern Triptych is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between panels. Its place in collections, studies and the great histories of painting makes it a major landmark of the shutter format. There dating indicated is around 1415 -1420 and the oil on wood technique. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque du martyre de saint Hippolyte, Hugo van der Goes#21
Hugo van der Goes · Alpha sheet

Triptych of the martyrdom of Saint Hippolytus

Classified no. 21, Triptych of the Martyrdom of Saint Hippolytus by Hugo van der Goes is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between the panels. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. There dating shown is 15th century and panel painting technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Polyptyque du Saint-Sacrement, Dirk Bouts#22
Dirk Bouts · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych of the Blessed Sacrament

Classified no. 22, Polyptych of the Blessed Sacrament by Dirk Bouts is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between the panels. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. Dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the instructions from the institution.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque de la famille Sedano, Gérard David#23
Gérard David · Alpha sheet

Triptych of the Sedano family

Classified no. 23, Triptych of the Sedano family by Gérard David is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between the panels. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. Dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque de l’Annonciation, Rogier van der Weyden#24
Rogier van der Weyden · Alpha sheet

Triptych of the Annunciation

Classified no. 24, Triptych of the Annunciation by Rogier van der Weyden is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between the panels. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. Dating indicated is 15th century and panel painting technique. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of matches.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque de l’Adoration des mages, Hans Memling#25
Hans Memling · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of the Adoration of the Magi

Classified no. 25, Triptych of the Adoration of the Magi by Hans Memling is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between the panels. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. Dating indicated is 15th century and the painting technique on panels. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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II
The golden age of the altarpiece

From Italy to the ancient Netherlands, the panels became architecture, story and object of devotion.

Polyptyque Baroncelli, Giotto#26
Giotto · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych Baroncelli

Classified no. 26, Polyptych Baroncelli by Giotto is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is XIVth century and the panel painting technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Polyptyque de la Badia, Giotto#27
Giotto · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych of Badia

Classified no. 27, Polyptych of Badia by Giotto is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, the vertical rhythms and the hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is XIVth century and panel painting technique. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Polyptyque de Bologne, Giotto#28
Giotto · Alpha Sheet

Bologna Polyptych

Classified no. 28, Giotto's Bologna Polyptych is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is XIVth century and panel painting technique. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated part is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Polyptyque de San Domenico, Simone Martini#29
Simone Martini · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych of San Domenico

Classified no. 29, Polyptych of San Domenico by Simone Martini is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, the vertical rhythms and the hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is 14th century and panel painting technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Polyptyque de Sainte Catherine d’Alexandrie, Simone Martini#30
Simone Martini · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych of Saint Catherine of Alexandria

Classified no. 30, Polyptych of Saint Catherine of Alexandria by Simone Martini is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, the vertical rhythms and the hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. There dating shown is 14th century and the technique painting on panels. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution notice.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Polyptyque d’Arezzo, Pietro Lorenzetti#31
Pietro Lorenzetti · Alpha Sheet

The Arezzo Polyptych

Classified no. 31, The Arezzo Polyptych by Pietro Lorenzetti is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is 14th century and the panel painting technique. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Polyptyque des Carmes, Pietro Lorenzetti#32
Pietro Lorenzetti · Alpha Sheet

Carmelite polyptych

Classified no. 32, Polyptych of the Carmelites by Pietro Lorenzetti is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is 14th century and the panel painting technique. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated part is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Polyptyque Tarlati, Pietro Lorenzetti#33
Pietro Lorenzetti · Alpha Sheet

Tarlati polyptych

Classified no. 33, Polyptych Tarlati by Pietro Lorenzetti is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is 14th century and panel painting technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque de San Michele, Ambrogio Lorenzetti#34
Ambrogio Lorenzetti · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of San Michele

Classified no. 34, Triptych of San Michele by Ambrogio Lorenzetti is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, the vertical rhythms and the hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is 14th century and the panel painting technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the instructions the institution.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque de Cambridge, Simone Martini#35
Simone Martini · Alpha Sheet

Cambridge Triptych

Classified no. 35, Simone Martini's Cambridge Triptych is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is 14th century and the panel painting technique. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque de Saint Laurent, Lorenzo Monaco#36
Lorenzo Monaco · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of Saint Laurent

Classified no. 36, Triptych of Saint Laurent by Lorenzo Monaco is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of look. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque de l’Annonciation, Lorenzo Monaco#37
Lorenzo Monaco · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of the Annunciation

Classified no. 37, Triptych of the Annunciation by Lorenzo Monaco is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of look. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Triptyque de saint Pierre martyr, Fra Angelico#38
Fra Angelico · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of Saint Peter the Martyr

Classified no. 38, Triptych of Saint Peter Martyr by Fra Angelico is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of look. The dating indicated is 15th century and the painting technique on panels. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Triptyque du Jugement dernier, Ascension et Pentecôte, Fra Angelico#39
Fra Angelico · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of the Last Judgment, Ascension and Pentecost

Classified No. 39, Triptych of the Last Judgment, Ascension and Pentecost by Fra Angelico is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is 15th century and the painting technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

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Le Triptyque de la Vierge d’humilité avec des saints, Fra Filippo Lippi#40
Fra Filippo Lippi · Alpha Sheet

The Triptych of the Virgin of Humility with Saints

Classified no. 40, The Triptych of the Virgin of Humility with Saints by Fra Filippo Lippi is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is 15th century and the painting technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an autonomous work.

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Triptyque du Baptême du Christ, Gérard David#41
Gérard David · Alpha sheet

Triptych of the Baptism of Christ

Classified no. 41, Triptych of the Baptism of Christ by Gérard David is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between the panels. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. Dating shown is 14th - 20th century and panel painting technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Polyptyque de la Cervara, Gérard David#42
Gérard David · Alpha sheet

Cervara polyptych

Classified no. 42, Polyptych of the Cervara by Gérard David is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between the panels. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the instructions the institution.

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Polyptyque de Recanati, Lorenzo Lotto#43
Lorenzo Lotto · Alpha Sheet

Recanati Polyptych

Classified no. 43, Polyptych of Recanati by Lorenzo Lotto is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, control, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is 16th century and the panel painting technique. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

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Polyptyque de Ponteranica, Lorenzo Lotto#44
Lorenzo Lotto · Alpha Sheet

Ponteranica polyptych

Classified no. 44, Polyptych of Ponteranica by Lorenzo Lotto is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, control, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is 16th century and the panel painting technique. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated part is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

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Polyptyque de Sant’Agostino, Pietro Perugino#45
Pietro Perugino · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych of Sant'Agostino

Classified no. 45, Polyptych of Sant'Agostino by Pietro Perugino is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, control, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is around 1500 and the panel painting technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Polyptyque Albani Torlonia, Pietro Perugino#46
Pietro Perugino · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych Albani Torlonia

Classified no. 46, Polyptych Albani Torlonia by Pietro Perugino is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, control, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is around 1500 and the panel painting technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the instructions the institution.

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Triptyque Galitzin, Pietro Perugino#47
Pietro Perugino · Alpha Sheet

Galitzin Triptych

Classified no. 47, Galitzin Triptych by Pietro Perugino is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is towards 1500 and the panel painting technique. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

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Triptyque Pagagnotti, Hans Memling#48
Hans Memling · Alpha Sheet

Pagagnotti Triptych

Classified no. 48, Hans Memling's Pagagnotti Triptych is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between the panels. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. The dating indicated is 15th century and the panel painting technique. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated part is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

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Triptyque de Benedetto Portinari, Hans Memling#49
Hans Memling · Alpha Sheet

Triptych by Benedetto Portinari

Classified no. 49, Triptych by Benedetto Portinari by Hans Memling is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between the panels. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. Dating indicated is 15th century and the painting technique on panels. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Triptyque de la Vanité terrestre, Hans Memling#50
Hans Memling · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of Earthly Vanity

Classified no. 50, Triptych of Terrestrial Vanity by Hans Memling is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between the panels. The work shows how the European altarpiece articulates devotion, command, architecture and circulation of the gaze. Dating indicated is 15th century and the painting technique on panels. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the instructions the institution.

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III
Workshops, towns and brotherhoods

Private orders, churches and corporations multiply formats and programs.

Triptyque avec le repos pendant la fuite en Égypte, Hans Memling#51
Hans Memling · Alpha Sheet

Triptych with rest during the flight into Egypt

Classified No. 51, Triptych with Rest During the Flight into Egypt by Hans Memling is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between the panels. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of the multiple image. The dating indicated is 15th century and the painting technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

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Triptyque de la Pietà, Saint Jean et Sainte Marie-Madeleine, Luis de Morales#52
Luis de Morales · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of Pietà, Saint John and Saint Mary Magdalene

Classified no. 52, Triptych of the Pietà, Saint John and Saint Mary Magdalene by Luis de Morales is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and uses laymen without losing the logic of multiple images. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

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Triptyque de la Vierge de Montserrat, Bartolomé Bermejo#53
Bartolomé Bermejo · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of the Virgin of Montserrat

Classified no. 53, Triptych of the Virgin of Montserrat by Bartolomé Bermejo is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of multiple images. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

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Triptyque de la Confrérie de Sainte Anne à Louvain, Quentin Metsys#54
Quentin Metsys · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of the Brotherhood of Saint Anne in Louvain

Classified no. 54, Triptych of the Brotherhood of Saint Anne in Louvain by Quentin Metsys is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It extends the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of the multiple image. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Le Triptyque de la Crucifixion, Joos van Cleve#55
Joos van Cleve · Alpha Sheet

The Triptych of the Crucifixion

Classified no. 55, The Triptych of the Crucifixion by Joos van Cleve is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing logic from the multiple image. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

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Triptyque. Au centre : la Déposition de Croix ; à gauche : saint Jean-Baptiste avec un donateur ; à droite : sainte Marguerite d’Antioche avec une donatrice., Joos van Cleve#56
Joos van Cleve · Alpha Sheet

Triptych. In the center: the Deposition from the Cross; left: Saint John the Baptist with a donor; right: Saint Margaret of Antioch with a donor.

Classified no. 56, Triptych. In the center: the Deposition from the Cross; left: Saint John the Baptist with a donor; right: Saint Margaret of Antioch with a donor. by Joos van Cleve is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending from the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of the multiple image. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

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Triptyque représentant l’Adoration des Rois mages, Joos van Cleve#57
Joos van Cleve · Alpha Sheet

Triptych representing the Adoration of the Three Wise Men

Classified no. 57, Triptych representing the Adoration of the Three Kings by Joos van Cleve is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of multiple images. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

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Triptyque Hanéton, Bernard van Orley#58
Bernard van Orley · Alpha sheet

Hanéton Triptych

Classified no. 58, Triptyque Hanéton by Bernard van Orley is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of the multiple image. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Triptyque de Notre-Dame des Sept Douleurs, Bernard van Orley#59
Bernard van Orley · Alpha sheet

Triptych of Our Lady of Seven Sorrows

Classified no. 59, Triptych of Our Lady of Seven Sorrows by Bernard van Orley is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without lose the logic of multiple images. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

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Polyptyque de Job et de Lazare, Bernard van Orley#60
Bernard van Orley · Alpha sheet

Polyptych of Job and Lazarus

Classified no. 60, Polyptych of Job and Lazarus by Bernard van Orley is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the multiple image logic. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

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Le Triptyque d’Aino, Akseli Gallen-Kallela#61
Akseli Gallen-Kallela · Alpha Sheet

Aino's Triptych

Classified no. 61, The Triptych of Aino by Akseli Gallen-Kallela is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of the multiple image. The dating indicated is 19th century and the painting technique on panels. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

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Le Triptyque de Troie, Edward Burne-Jones#62
Edward Burne-Jones · Alpha Sheet

The Trojan Triptych

Classified no. 62, The Trojan Triptych by Edward Burne-Jones is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of the multiple image. The dating indicated is 19th century and the painting technique on panels. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Le Triptyque avec les portraits de Lawrence Alma-Tadema et de Laura Epps, Lawrence Alma-Tadema#63
Lawrence Alma-Tadema · Alpha Sheet

The Triptych with portraits of Lawrence Alma-Tadema and Laura Epps

Classified no. 63, The Triptych with the portraits of Lawrence Alma-Tadema and Laura Epps by Lawrence Alma-Tadema is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part maintains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and for secular uses without losing the logic of multiple images. The dating indicated is 19th century and the painting technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

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Le Grand Jardin zoologique, triptyque, August Macke#64
August Macke · Alpha Sheet

The Great Zoological Garden, triptych

Classified no. 64, The Great Zoological Garden, August Macke's triptych, is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The shutters organize a moral progression where the earthly world, temptation and salvation respond to each other in contrasts. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of the image multiple. The dating indicated is 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

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Triptyque. Composition verticale-horizontale à triangles réciproques, Sophie Taeuber#65
Sophie Taeuber · Alpha Sheet

Triptych. Vertical-horizontal composition with reciprocal triangles

Classified no. 65, Triptych. Vertical-horizontal composition with reciprocal triangles by Sophie Taeuber is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of multiple images. The dating indicated is 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

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Adoration des Mages (Triptyque), Hugo van der Goes#66
Hugo van der Goes · Alpha sheet

Adoration of the Magi (Triptych)

Classified no. 66, Adoration of the Magi (Triptych) by Hugo van der Goes is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between panels. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of the image multiple. The dating indicated is 15th century and the painting technique on panels. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Polyptyque de Massa Fermana, Carlo Crivelli#67
Carlo Crivelli · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych by Massa Fermana

Classified no. 67, Polyptych by Massa Fermana by Carlo Crivelli is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of multiple images. There dating indicated is 15th century and the painting technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

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Polyptyque de Sant’Emidio, Carlo Crivelli#68
Carlo Crivelli · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych of Sant'Emidio

Classified no. 68, Polyptych of Sant'Emidio by Carlo Crivelli is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of multiple images. There dating indicated is 15th century and the painting technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

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Polyptyque du Duomo de Camerino, Carlo Crivelli#69
Carlo Crivelli · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych of the Duomo of Camerino

Classified no. 69, Polyptych of Carlo Crivelli's Duomo de Camerino is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of multiple images. There dating shown is 15th century and panel painting technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

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Triptyque de Montefiore, Carlo Crivelli#70
Carlo Crivelli · Alpha Sheet

Montefiore Triptych

Classified no. 70, Montefiore Triptych by Carlo Crivelli is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of multiple images. Dating indicated is 15th century and the painting technique on panels. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Polyptyque, Carlo Crivelli#71
Carlo Crivelli · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych

Classified no. 71, Polyptych by Carlo Crivelli is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of multiple images. The dating indicated is 15th century and the panel painting technique. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not offered, the institution's notice.

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Deuxième triptyque, Carlo Crivelli#72
Carlo Crivelli · Alpha Sheet

Second triptych

Classified no. 72, Carlo Crivelli's Second Triptych is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of multiple images. Dating indicated is 15th century and panel painting technique. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not offered, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

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Triptyque, Carlo Crivelli#73
Carlo Crivelli · Alpha Sheet

Triptych

Classified no. 73, Triptych by Carlo Crivelli is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of multiple images. The dating indicated is 15th century and panel painting technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Polyptyque d’Arcevia, Luca Signorelli#74
Luca Signorelli · Alpha Sheet

Arcevia Polyptych

Classified no. 74, Polyptych of Arcevia by Luca Signorelli is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Frames, floors and vanishing lines connect the compartments and give the whole the coherence of a single space. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the logic of multiple images. Dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the instructions from the institution.

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Polyptyque de saint Grégoire, Antonello de Messine#75
Antonello of Messina · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych of Saint Gregory

Classified no. 75, Polyptych of Saint Gregory of Antonello of Messina is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. It broadens the classification to regional traditions and secular uses without losing the multiple image logic. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

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IV
The diversity of sets

From medieval gold backgrounds to modern reinventions, the principle of multiple images remains alive.

Polyptyque de San Domenico de Cortone, Sassetta#76
Sassetta · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych of San Domenico de Cortona

Classified no. 76, Polyptych of San Domenico de Cortona de Sassetta is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this set remains essential for understand the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not offered, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

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Polyptyque de Santa Chiara, Paolo Veneziano#77
Paolo Veneziano · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych of Santa Chiara

Classified no. 77, Polyptych of Santa Chiara by Paolo Veneziano is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. Less often reproduced than the first icons in the classification, this set remains essential for understanding the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

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Polyptyque de l’Intercession, Gentile da Fabriano#78
Gentile da Fabriano · Alpha Sheet

Intercession Polyptych

Classified no. 78, Polyptych of the Intercession of Gentile da Fabriano is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this set remains essential for understand the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Polyptyque de la Vierge à l’Enfant avec des saints, Duccio di Buoninsegna#79
Duccio di Buoninsegna · Alpha Sheet

Polyptych of the Virgin and Child with saints

Classified no. 79, Polyptych of the Virgin and Child with Saints by Duccio di Buoninsegna is retained as a complete polyptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. Less often reproduced than the first icons in the classification, this set remains essential for understand the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th century and the painting technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not offered, the institution's notice.

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Triptyque : Crucifixion et autres scènes, Duccio di Buoninsegna#80
Duccio di Buoninsegna · Alpha Sheet

Triptych: Crucifixion and other scenes

Classified No. 80, Triptych: Crucifixion and other scenes by Duccio di Buoninsegna is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. Less often reproduced than the first icons in the ranking, this set remains essential for understanding the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th century and the painting technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque : la Crucifixion ; le Rédempteur avec les anges ; saint Nicolas ; saint Grégoire, Duccio di Buoninsegna#81
Duccio di Buoninsegna · Alpha Sheet

Triptych: the Crucifixion; the Redeemer with the angels; Saint Nicholas; Saint Gregory

Classified No. 81, Triptych: the Crucifixion; the Redeemer with the angels; Saint Nicholas; Saint Gregory of Duccio di Buoninsegna is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this set remains essential for understanding the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th century and the painting technique on panels. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque Bigallo, Bernardo Daddi#82
Bernardo Daddi · Alpha Sheet

Bigallo Triptych

Classified no. 82, Bigallo Triptych by Bernardo Daddi is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this set remains essential for understanding the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th century and the painting technique on panels. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque, Bernardo Daddi#83
Bernardo Daddi · Alpha Sheet

Triptych

Classified no. 83, Bernardo Daddi's Triptych is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. Less often reproduced than the first icons in the ranking, this set remains essential for understanding the variety of formats and workshops. There dating indicated is 14th century and the painting technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque, Agnolo Gaddi#84
Agnolo Gaddi · Alpha Sheet

Triptych

Classified no. 84, Triptych by Agnolo Gaddi is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. Less often reproduced than the first icons in the ranking, this set remains essential for understanding the variety of formats and workshops. There dating indicated is 14th century and the painting technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque, Taddeo Gaddi#85
Taddeo Gaddi · Alpha Sheet

Triptych

Classified no. 85, Taddeo Gaddi's Triptych is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. Less often reproduced than the first icons in the ranking, this set remains essential for understanding the variety of formats and workshops. There dating shown is 14th century and panel painting technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque, Niccolo di Tommaso#86
Niccolo di Tommaso · Alpha Sheet

Triptych

Classified no. 86, Triptych by Niccolo di Tommaso is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this set remains essential for understanding variety formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque au Trône de grâce, Nardo di Cione#87
Nardo di Cione · Alpha Sheet

Triptych at the Throne of Grace

Classified no. 87, Triptych at the Throne of Grace by Nardo di Cione is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this set remains essential for understand the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th century and the painting technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not offered, the institution's notice.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque de la Vierge à l’Enfant en majesté entouré de quatre saints, Spinello Aretino#88
Spinello Aretino · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of the Virgin and Child in majesty surrounded by four saints

Classified no. 88, Triptych of the Virgin and Child in Majesty surrounded by four saints by Spinello Aretino is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this set remains essential to understand the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not offered, the institution's notice.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque de la Vierge à l’Enfant et les saints Pierre et Paul, Ugolino di Nerio#89
Ugolino di Nerio · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of the Virgin and Child and Saints Peter and Paul

Classified no. 89, Triptych of the Virgin and Child and Saints Peter and Paul by Ugolino di Nerio is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this together remains essential to understand the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque de la mise au tombeau, Maarten van Heemskerck#90
Maarten van Heemskerck · Alpha sheet

Triptych of burial

Classified No. 90, Triptych of the Entombment of Maarten van Heemskerck is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons in the ranking, this set remains essential to understand the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

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Triptyque avec la Lamentation (panneau central), le donateur avec saint Pierre (aile intérieure gauche), l’épouse du donateur avec saint Paul (aile intérieure droite) et les armoiries des donateurs (ailes extérieures), Jan Mostaert#91
Jan Mostaert · Alpha Sheet

Triptych with the Lamentation (central panel), the donor with Saint Peter (left inner wing), the donor's wife with Saint Paul (right inner wing) and the donor coat of arms (outer wings)

Classified No. 91, Triptych with Lamentation (central panel), the donor with Saint Peter (left inner wing), the donor's wife with Saint Paul (right inner wing) and the donor coat of arms (outer wings) by Jan Mostaert is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part maintains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons in the ranking, this set remains essential for understanding the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque : Repos pendant la fuite vers l’Égypte, Joachim Patinier#92
Joachim Patinier · Alpha Sheet

Triptych: Rest during the flight to Egypt

Classified no. 92, Triptych: Rest during Joachim Patinier's flight to Egypt is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this set remains essential for understanding the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not offered, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

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Triptyque du Saint Visage, Maître Bertram#93
Master Bertram · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of the Holy Face

Classified no. 93, Triptych of the Holy Face of Master Bertram is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this set remains essential for understand the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque, Annibale Carracci#94
Annibale Carracci · Alpha Sheet

Triptych

Classified no. 94, Triptych by Annibale Carracci is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this set remains essential for understanding variety formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque représentant la Cène et les donateurs, Jacob Cornelisz van Oostsanen#95
Jacob Cornelisz van Oostsanen · Alpha sheet

Triptych representing the Last Supper and the donors

Classified no. 95, Triptych representing the Last Supper and the donors of Jacob Cornelisz van Oostsanen is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this together remains essential to understand the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the painting technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Le Triptyque de l’Adoration des Mages et de la Descente de croix, Jan Gossaert#96
Jan Gossaert · Alpha Sheet

The Triptych of the Adoration of the Magi and the Descent from the Cross

Classified no. 96, The Triptych of the Adoration of the Magi and the Descent from the Cross by Jan Gossaert is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this together remains essential to understand the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not offered, the institution's notice.

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Triptyque : La Vierge de l’Humilité (au centre) ; La Nativité (à gauche) ; La Crucifixion (à droite) ; L’Annonciation (en haut à gauche et à droite), Francescuccio Ghissi#97
Francescuccio Ghissi · Alpha Sheet

Triptych: The Virgin of Humility (center); The Nativity (left); The Crucifixion (right); The Annunciation (top left and right)

Classified No. 97, Triptych: The Virgin of Humility (center); The Nativity (left); The Crucifixion (right); The Annunciation (top left and right) by Francescuccio Ghissi is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this set remains essential for understanding the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The classification considers the whole whole: no isolated shutter is counted as an autonomous work.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque : La Crucifixion flanquée du donateur agenouillé et de son épouse, Joos van Cleve#98
Joos van Cleve · Alpha Sheet

Triptych: The Crucifixion flanked by the kneeling donor and his wife

Classified No. 98, Triptych: The Crucifixion flanked by the kneeling donor and his wife by Joos van Cleve is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The division into several panels becomes a principle of narration: each part retains its autonomy while depending on the rhythm of the whole. Less often reproduced than the first icons of the classification, this set remains essential to understand the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th - 20th century and the panel painting technique. The image must therefore be read from left to right, but also as a continuous surface made of correspondences.

Image and link: Alpha Reproduction.

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Triptyque de la Crucifixion, Rogier van der Weyden#99
Rogier van der Weyden · Alpha sheet

Triptych of the Crucifixion

Classified No. 99, Triptych of the Crucifixion by Rogier van der Weyden is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. Unity comes from light, perspective and gestures that cross the material boundaries between panels. Less often reproduced than the first icons in the ranking, this set remains essential for understanding variety formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 15th century and the painting technique on panels. The frame, hinges and order of the panels contribute as much to the meaning as the scenes represented. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not offered, the institution's notice.

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Triptyque de Sant’Agostino, Simone Martini#100
Simone Martini · Alpha Sheet

Triptych of Sant'Agostino

Classified no. 100, Triptych of Sant'Agostino by Simone Martini is retained as a complete triptych and not as an artificial juxtaposition of panels. The gold background, vertical rhythms and hierarchy of figures transform the whole into devotional architecture. Less often reproduced than the first icons in the classification, this set remains essential for understanding the variety of formats and workshops. The dating indicated is 14th century and the painting technique on panels. The link associated with the image opens the existing Alpha sheet or, when reproduction is not proposed, the institution's notice. The classification considers the whole complete: no isolated part is counted as an independent work.

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Editorial method

Three ranking criteria

Each entry was checked as a complete set before assessing its notoriety and influence.

01

Real set

The panels must have been designed as a bound work, an altarpiece or a documented articulated program.

02

Importance

The rank combines celebrity, spatial innovation, pictorial quality, influence and place in collections.

03

Verified image

The image represents the whole and the link opens the Alpha sheet or the corresponding institutional notice.

A history of the flap image

From gold background to continuous space

Italian masters of the 14th century built real painted architecture, where the size and place of each figure responded to the liturgical function.

Van Eyck, Campin, Rogier van der Weyden and Memling then unify the panels through light, landscapes and symbolic correspondences.

Bosch, Grünewald, Titian and the moderns finally transform the format into a visionary, dramatic or secular space, without renouncing the power of editing.

Sources and collections

Check large sets

The ranking links open existing Alpha files or institutional notices. These collections complete the context of the first ranks.

Frequently asked questions

Understand triptychs and polyptychs

Format, sections, classification, titles and links: the essential benchmarks for browsing the hundred sets.

What is the difference between triptych and polyptych?

A triptych has three main parts. A polyptych brings together more, often on several registers, with fixed or mobile shutters.

Does the classification include insulated panels?

No. Each rank corresponds to a complete documented set. Titles that describe a central panel and its wings designate a single composed work, never several entries.

How was the top 100 established?

Rank combines fame, historical importance, quality of unity between panels, influence and presence in major collections.

Why so many religious altarpieces?

From the 14th to the 16th century, the triptych and the polyptych were first and foremost liturgical and devotional formats linked to the altar, brotherhoods and private commissions.

Are the titles in French?

Yes. The editorial titles have been harmonized in French, while the proper names and historical appellations of the places are preserved.

Where do the images lead?

The works available at Alpha open their reproduction sheet. The Mérode Triptych, documented by the Met, directly opens the official museum notice.

Do closed shutters count as a separate work?

No. The different states of opening belong to the same altarpiece and are not classified separately.

Is this classification that of museums?

No. This is an independent editorial selection, based on public collections, bibliography and the Alpha Reproduction catalog.

The journey continues

A hundred works, a thousand relationships between the panels

Open, close, compare, connect: the triptych and the polyptych make the look a real journey.

Return to 100 sets

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