Hieronymous Bosch (c. 1450-1516) was a remarkable artist from the Netherlands who left an indelible mark on the imagination of the world. He was one of the few artists who rose above the conventions of his time and created a new visual language of macabre symbolism, sometimes a literal translation of verbal metaphors found in the Bible.
He gave his imagination free rein in works, his paintings populated with grotesque scenes using images of demons and other fantastical creatures to portray the lacking morality of man. Bosch produced at least sixteen triptychs, of which eight are fully intact, and another five in fragments. His most famous work, The Garden of Earthly Delights, depicts the decline of the world through sin, a beautiful garden becoming a dark, fiery nightmare. Like so many of his pieces, it serves as a visual lecture on morality.
Hertogenbosch, a city in the Netherlands and Bosch's hometown, celebrates the life and works of the artist in 2016, starting with the largest retrospective ever of Bosch's work being exhibited at the Noordbrabants Museum, 12th February - 8th May. Theatre, dance and musical extravaganzas inspired by Bosch's work will be performed around the city, including a spectacular light show that will be presented on the city's market square.
Jheronimus: The Road to Heaven and Hell is essential reading for all Bosch enthusiasts and a perfect introduction for those new to this incredible artist...
