Altarpiece

An altarpiece is a picture or relief representing a religious subject and suspended in a frame behind the altar of a church. The altarpiece is often made up of two or more separate panels created using a technique known as panel painting. It is then called a diptych, triptych or polyptych. Groups of statuary can also be placed on the altar. Sometimes the altarpiece is set on the altar itself.

Related Topics:
Relief - Altar - Panel painting - Diptych - Triptych - Polyptych

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If the altar stands free in the choir, both sides of the altar-piece can be covered with painting. The screen, retable or reredos are also commonly decorated.

Related Topics:
Choir - Screen - Retable - Reredos

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A famous example is the Ghent Altarpiece (1432) by Hubert and Jan van Eyck.

Related Topics:
Ghent Altarpiece - Hubert - Jan van Eyck

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