Portraits of Cornelius Duplicius de Scheppere and his wife Elizabeth Donche Ambrosius Benson (1495-1550)

The diptych presents two individual portraits, presumably of a married couple, rendered in a formal and restrained style characteristic of Northern Renaissance portraiture. Each panel is framed by an arched niche set within a dark green background, which serves to isolate the figures and direct attention towards their faces and upper bodies.
On the left, a man stands facing forward, his gaze directed slightly downwards. He wears a black doublet with fur trim at the collar and sleeves, suggesting a degree of wealth and status. His hands are clasped together, holding what appears to be a small plant or sprig, its significance remaining ambiguous but potentially symbolic of fertility, prosperity, or familial lineage. The man’s expression is serious, almost melancholic; his features are sharply defined, conveying an impression of dignity and perhaps introspection.
The woman on the right mirrors her husbands pose, facing forward with a direct gaze. She is dressed in a rich red gown with a white lace collar and headdress. In her hands, she holds what appears to be a rosary or prayer beads, indicating piety and devotion. Her expression is more serene than her husband’s, though not entirely devoid of seriousness; theres a quiet composure about her. The meticulous rendering of the lace details on her clothing highlights the artist’s technical skill and emphasizes the family’s affluence.
The composition of the diptych reinforces the idea of partnership and shared status. The symmetry in their poses, coupled with the similar framing devices, suggests an equivalence between the two individuals. However, subtle differences in expression – the mans somberness versus the womans quiet composure – hint at distinct personalities or perhaps differing roles within the marriage.
The dark background contributes to a sense of solemnity and formality, typical of portraits intended for private display rather than public consumption. The limited color palette – dominated by blacks, reds, greens, and whites – further enhances this restrained atmosphere. Overall, the work conveys an impression of wealth, piety, and familial stability, while also hinting at the complexities inherent in human relationships.