Memling, Hans
(1430?-94). Although he was known as a master of Flemish
painting, Hans Memling was born in Seligenstadt, near what is today Frankfurt
am Main, Germany. Memling, whose name is sometimes spelled Memlinc, first
established himself as a painter in Brussels. In style and composition his
work shows the strong influence of
Rogier van der Weyden,
the great Flemish
painter. Because of this, Memling is thought to have studied under the older
artist.
In about 1466 Memling moved to Brugge, where his career prospered. Like
many other Flemish masters, Memling painted with glowing colors and fine
craftsmanship. Unlike most artists, his style varied little throughout his
career.
Many of Memling's well-known religious works were painted for the Hospital
of St. John in Brugge. These include
Adoration of the Magi and six panels
depicting St. Ursula's journey to Rome, which he painted for the hospital's
shrine to that saint.
Memling was a master of portraiture. The faces he painted with careful
detail glow with life. The character of each is subtly suggested. In addition
to the portraits Memling painted for the notables of Brugge, he also received
commissions from foreign visitors such as Tommaso Portinari of the Florentine
Medici. Memling died in Brugge on Aug. 11, 1494.