Church of Our Lady

Vigor Boucquet (1619-1677)

The Judgement of Cambyses
Oordeel van Cambyses door Vigor Boucquet

Onze Lieve Vrouwstraat, Nieuwpoort

 

Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk in Nieuwpoort is one of the few places where, standing on a huge staircase, you can admire the church and a painting by a Flemish master from a completely different angle. The higher you climb, the closer you get to the artwork. An extraordinary experience! 

Het Oordeel van Cambyses door Vigor Boucquet

Church of Our Lady

The main church of the port and coastal town of Nieuwpoort is a three-aisled Gothic hall church, with an almost detached north tower. It was rebuilt after WWI in accordance with the original plans, and again after WWII. In addition to biblical themes, the valuable stained glass windows depict local historical events. On the altar of Our Lady, the fishing boat stands out as a symbol of the town.

The Judgement of Cambyses

Vigor Boucquet was a successful Baroque painter who originated from nearby Veurne. He created this work in 1671 for the town hall in Nieuwpoort, where justice was still being dispensed by Aldermen at the time. It tells the story of a corrupt judge from ancient times who was punished for his conduct: he was flayed alive. Such an ‘allegory of justice’ acted as a warning to judges to ensure that they dispensed justice in a fair and dignified manner. Perhaps this work was paid for by a convict, as a form of monetary penalty.

Practical information

Address

Onze Lieve Vrouwstraat
8620 Nieuwpoort
Belgium
View directions

Opening hours

  • Open Monday to Sunday from 10.00 to 18.00 hrs.

Accessibility

  • Easy access for people with disabilities.

Good to know

  • Admission: free

Other sites nearby

Christus wast met zijn bloed de zielen uit het vagevuur vrij van Vigor Bouquet (detail)
The Veurne painter Vigor Boucquet was known as a portraitist and his work is on display in a number of churches in West Flanders.
La gare forestière van Paul Delvaux
Paul Delvaux’s oeuvre is noted for its mysterious, dreamlike scenes. Visit the museum and look for the painting of La Gare forestière.