Justus of Ghent and workshop – Rhetoric Part 4 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a scene centered around two figures engaged in what appears to be a lesson or demonstration of rhetoric. A seated woman occupies the primary visual space, positioned upon an elaborate throne-like structure. She is engrossed in reading from a large, open book held before her. Her posture suggests attentiveness and authority; she gazes downwards with a focused expression. The dark fabric of her gown contrasts sharply with the lighter tones of her face and hands, drawing attention to these features. A laurel wreath adorns her head, a traditional symbol of learning and eloquence.
Below her, a younger man is depicted in profile, facing towards the woman and the book she holds. He wears a black robe lined with red, indicating status or affiliation. His posture suggests rapt attention; his head is bowed slightly as he observes the reading. The positioning of his body directs the viewers gaze toward the text being presented.
The setting itself contributes to the overall meaning. A set of green steps ascends towards the woman’s elevated position, visually reinforcing her intellectual superiority and perhaps symbolizing a progression in knowledge or understanding. Above, an inscription runs along the top edge of the frame, its Latin phrasing adding another layer of scholarly context. The background is deliberately muted, with indistinct shapes suggesting a space beyond the immediate interaction, further emphasizing the focus on the two figures and their activity.
Subtleties within the painting suggest deeper meanings. The woman’s role could be interpreted as that of a teacher or mentor, imparting knowledge to her student. Alternatively, she might represent an allegorical figure embodying rhetoric itself – a personification of persuasive speech and reasoned argument. The young mans attentive posture implies not only learning but also respect for the source of knowledge. The use of color – the dark robes contrasting with the woman’s lighter complexion – might signify the transmission of wisdom from one generation or social standing to another. Overall, the work conveys a sense of intellectual pursuit and the importance of education within a hierarchical societal structure.