As part of the Flemish Masters in Situ art project, various Flemish masterpieces are displayed at the original locations for which they were designed. As a result, a rare bozzetto by Anthony Van Dyck from our collection can be viewed in the Church of Our Lady in Dendermonde. This compositional sketch illustrates The Adoration of the Shepherds, which was designed for the church’s chapel.

The bozzetto offers a glimpse into Van Dyck’s initial concept for the composition. The sketch was likely made to present his design and secure the commission. Most of the sketch is executed in grisaille, with a few color accents. Notable is the difference from the final composition, where various characters have changed in position or appearance, while other figures have remained unchanged.

In addition to the bozzetto and the final work, this summer you also have the chance to take a behind-the-scenes look at the restoration of another Van Dyck masterpiece, namely Christ on the Cross, which can also be seen in the Church of Our Lady.