About Bosch

Illustre Brotherhood of Our Blessed Lady

Just like his grandfather and his father before him, in 1486-1487 Jheronimus Bosch became a member of the Illustre Brotherhood of Our Blessed Lady. In 1488, Jheronimus became 'sworn member', which meant he not only joined the fifty members of the brotherhood, but was also admitted to the social-religious elite of the city. The sworn brethren gathered regularly, both at St John's Church and elsewhere. His fellow brethren will certainly have been familiar with Bosch's work, particularly the brethren who had been invited at his home for a meal on two occasions, in 1488-1489 and in 1510.

Fellow brethren

We want to name a few of Jheronimus Bosch's fellow brethren here: Jan Heyns, architect of St John's Church and Pieter van Os, town clerk and patron of an 'Ecce Homo' triptych, an alterpiece in the style of Bosch that is kept in Boston. The company of sworn brethren did consist mainly of clergymen and university graduates. Not only was the Brotherhood as institute a -prospective - patron, the individual members could also act as such. The membership also meant a source of inspiration and offered a window on the world. They were educated people with various connections at home and abroad. The influence of the Brotherhood on Bosch's life and work has undoubtedly been substantial.