NAVAS DE TOLOSA ALTARPIECE

TYPOLOGY 

Owing to its rectangular profile, the altarpiece of Las Navas de Tolosa is a fine example of the most classical type of Flemish altarpieces: namely those manufactured in a so-called "inverted "T"". Thanks to an enhancement, the central section of the altarpiece stands higher than the two lateral sections. The latter have a total of six compartments reserved for free-standing figures situated under canopies on three levels on the same plane supported by small columns. The altarpiece displays architectural decoration to more than half its overall height. Decorations crowning the central relief, on the other hand, are octagonal in shape, representing a more advanced stage of decorative processes. At the foot of the altarpiece there is a decorated skirting board divided into three sections that is typical of altarpieces manufactured in Brussels. Though they have not been conserved to the present, the altarpiece was originally equipped with protective wings as may be seen by the remains of the hinges on either side of the frame.