The Chrysopoeia of Johannes Van Eyck

For the first time, the life of the Flemish painter Jan Van Eyck and his family has been written in a biographical novel. The historical facts are included and form the basis of the novel. In spite of a labyrinth of theories put forward by eminent scholars like dr. Elisabeth Dhanens or Erwin Panofsky, a balanced course of life with real life persons has been put together. Hubert wants to become an artist though his father disapproves. Success fails until he is asked to do a major task in the city of Ghent. His sister Margaretha has a golden voice but struggles with her love life. She comforts herself in standing by her brothers. Next we meet Lambert also historically mentioned. Of all family members, most biographical facts are known about Jan Van Eyck, Johannes in the novel. We follow from birth until his passing, with all the facts of his life woven into a story that gives us an idea of the Times he lived in. Jan Van Eyck created a chrysopoeia, in the alchemy the accomplishment of the Magnum Opus or great work, a statement answering the question “Why are we on this earth?”.