Netherlandish – Saint Ambrose with Ambrosius van Engelen Part 5 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a vertical arrangement dominated by a highly ornate staff or crozier, centrally positioned against a dark, textured background. The staff itself is rendered with meticulous detail, showcasing elaborate gilded ornamentation and intricate carvings that suggest considerable wealth and status. Its design incorporates floral motifs and what appears to be a heraldic crest at the apex.
A significant element of the work is the banner or scroll unfurling from the staff’s lower portion. The text inscribed upon it – NE QVID NIMIS – is clearly legible, written in capital letters with a deliberate formality. This Latin phrase translates to “nothing in excess” or “not too much,” immediately introducing a moral and philosophical dimension to the piece.
The dark background isnt merely an absence of detail; its rough texture contributes to the overall solemnity and austerity of the scene. The limited palette, primarily consisting of gold, brown, and black, reinforces this sense of gravity and restraint. The stark contrast between the luminous staff and the somber backdrop draws the viewer’s attention directly to the object and the message it conveys.
The artists choice to isolate the staff within such a confined space suggests its symbolic importance. It isnt presented as part of a larger narrative or scene, but rather stands alone as an emblem representing principles of moderation, balance, and perhaps even spiritual guidance. The inscription on the banner implies a cautionary message – a reminder against indulgence and excess in all aspects of life.
The work’s aesthetic style points towards a Northern European tradition, likely from the late medieval or early Renaissance period, characterized by its meticulous detail, symbolic language, and emphasis on moral instruction.