2020 – Social Network Analysis of the Artistic Field in Flanders in the First Half of the Fifteenth Century

Although the first half of the fifteenth century constituted a new artistic field in Europe, the social conditions that gave rise to this innovation have been insufficiently researched for Flanders. This project aims to remedy this lacuna by socially connecting artists in different media and embedding them within their trade and patronage networks. By employing a hitherto neglected methodology for the Burgundian arts, Social Network Analysis, the relational structure of this artistic field will be analysed. This will enhance our understanding of the artist, by historically unravelling his position in an art world that was a model for late medieval Europe.

Caption: Ghent, panoramic view from 1534 (wikimedia).