Liberation of the Prisoners

Liberation of the Prisoners
Brussels, ca. 1470
Paint on wood
H. 0.80 ; W. 0.46
Sommerard Fund
Cl. 839

This painting was part of a series inspired by charitable works mentioned in the Gospel according to Matthew, following a theme favoured in Dutch paitings in the 15th and 16th centuries. The gaoler opens the door and allows the shackled prisioners to leave the crowded tower. Christ's presence among the liberated prisoners fulfils his word: "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." (Matthew 25:40). The author of this act of mercy is the character on the left, thought to be the portrait of an influential member of the court of the dukes of Burgundy.