Ceremonial Opening of the Parliament of Mechelen

The painting 'Ceremonial Opening of the Parliament of Mechelen' depicts a significant moment in history. What you see is the inaugural assembly of the Great Council, the highest judicial body in the Netherlands. It is attributed to Jan Coessaet and recognised as a Flemish Masterpiece.

Painting as a Visual Record

The forty-five gentlemen dressed in scarlet red robes in this painting collectively constitute the Parliament of Mechelen. They are in the upper chamber of the Mechelen Aldermen's House, where the Great Council of Mechelen (successor to the Parliament) convened until 1616. The session is presided over by the Burgundian Duke Charles the Bold, who established the Parliament in late 1473. As the sovereign ruler, he wears a crown and a mantle trimmed with ermine.

This monumental painting is attributed to the Mechelen painter Jan Coessaet and is dated to 1587. It may, however, be much more recent. Coessaet aimed to give a clear representation of the opening session, but without an accurate depiction of the faces present. They all appear quite alike. Their names and functions are, however, documented (in French).

This painting certainly adorned the reception hall of the Great Council in the Court of Savoy from the late 17th century. Several versions of this painting exist, including those in the Royal Museums of Fine Arts in Brussels and the French National Library.

In detail

• Title: Ceremonial Opening of the Parliament of Mechelen under Charles the Bold (1474)
• Item name: painting
• Maker: Jan Coessaet (attributed to)
• Date: 1587?
• Material: oils on panel
• Dimensions: 149 x 476 cm
• Inventory number: S0615