The Wilton Diptych! An Exquisite Medieval Altar Piece and Its Intriguing Symbolism

The Wilton Diptych! An Exquisite Medieval Altar Piece and Its Intriguing Symbolism

The Wilton Diptych, housed in the National Gallery, London, stands as a breathtaking testament to the artistic mastery of the Late Middle Ages. Created around 1395-1399, this double-sided oak panel painting, measuring approximately 39.4 by 60.8 centimetres when closed, captivates viewers with its intricate details, vibrant colors, and profound theological symbolism.

While the artist’s identity remains shrouded in some mystery, scholars widely attribute the Wilton Diptych to the talented illuminator William de Wykeham. This attribution stems from stylistic similarities between the diptych’s paintings and other works associated with Wykeham, a renowned figure at Winchester College during the late 14th century.

The front panel unveils a captivating scene of the Virgin Mary enthroned amidst a celestial realm. Dressed in rich blue robes adorned with golden embroidery, she cradles the infant Christ, who gazes directly at the viewer with an air of serene wisdom. Flanking the Virgin are two angels, their wings delicately spread, offering lilies - symbols of purity and divine grace - as tokens of reverence. The scene is set against a backdrop of a lush garden, suggestive of paradise and spiritual fulfillment.

Behind Mary sits a majestic architectural structure adorned with intricate tracery and pointed arches. This element likely alludes to the Heavenly Jerusalem, a city described in the biblical Book of Revelation as a place of divine splendor and eternal peace.

The reverse panel reveals a portrait of Richard II, then a young king of England, kneeling before a saintly figure. This figure is traditionally interpreted as Saint John the Baptist, but some scholars suggest that it might represent Edward III, Richard’s grandfather and a powerful monarch who shaped England’s destiny.

Richard II appears draped in opulent clothing befitting his royal status. He raises his hands in prayer, his face radiating piety and humility before the sacred figure. This juxtaposition of the earthly king with the divine figure underscores the medieval concept of “divine right,” where kings were believed to derive their authority directly from God.

The Wilton Diptych’s intricate symbolism extends beyond its primary subjects.

A closer examination reveals a rich tapestry of motifs laden with theological and political meaning:

  • The Lilies: Presented by the angels, these white flowers symbolize purity and innocence, representing both the Virgin Mary and the ideal Christian life.

  • The Heavenly Jerusalem: The architectural backdrop evokes paradise, suggesting that through prayer and devotion, one could attain spiritual salvation and communion with God.

  • Richard II’s Kneeling Posture: This gesture embodies humility and deference to divine authority, reinforcing the concept of “divine right” prevalent in medieval England.

  • The Saintly Figure: Traditionally identified as Saint John the Baptist, this figure may also represent Edward III, Richard II’s grandfather, symbolizing a lineage blessed by God and destined for greatness.

A Glimpse into Medieval Artistic Practices

The Wilton Diptych offers valuable insights into the artistic techniques employed in the late 14th century:

  • Tempera Painting: This method involved mixing pigments with egg yolk as a binder, creating rich, luminous colors that have endured centuries.

  • Gold Leaf: Extensively used for backgrounds and architectural details, gold leaf imparted a sense of grandeur and divine radiance to the scenes.

  • Intricate Detailing: The meticulous attention to detail evident in the drapery folds, facial expressions, and architectural elements highlights the artists’ mastery of observation and technical skill.

The Wilton Diptych Today: A Legacy of Art and Devotion

Since its acquisition by the National Gallery in 1897, the Wilton Diptych has become one of the most cherished objects in their collection. Its exquisite beauty and enduring symbolism continue to captivate viewers from around the world. The diptych serves not only as a testament to the artistic brilliance of William de Wykeham but also as a powerful reminder of the deep-seated faith and political ideals that shaped medieval England.

The Wilton Diptych invites us to contemplate the complexities of religious devotion, royal authority, and the enduring power of art to transcend time. Its vibrant colors, intricate details, and profound symbolism continue to resonate with viewers centuries after its creation, solidifying its place as a masterpiece of medieval art.