The object in context
The Saluces altarpiece brings together carved scenes associated with the Borman workshop and painted wings by Valentin van Orley. Made around 1500–1510 for the Italian Pensa family, it has two pairs of wings and three possible arrangements. Its travel from Italy to the Brussels collection in 1894 is a separate history from the scenes it represents.
Try this when you look
Our reproduction shows the painted part, not the entire carved altarpiece. Compare how a sequence is divided between panels, then ask what becomes visible when wings open or close. Draw three boxes for the arrangements and label only the information confirmed by a museum image or record.
Before you visit
Brussels City Museum announces full closure from 4 January to 1 March 2027, followed by partial reopening with the second floor remaining closed. Check its practical notice and current display before travelling. The 2016 selection is not a guarantee that this object will be accessible during restoration.
- Whole image — Describe the strongest visible contrast.
- Locate a detail — Follow a colour, gesture or line.
- Compare — Test your observation on a second work.
- Question — Ask what evidence could change your reading.