Hans Memling’s portrait of Maria Maddalena Portinari, 1480. On wood.
I’ve only seen five Memling paintings in my lifetime and the were all gorgeous. I don’t believe he was a high output painter (thus the five encounters). I always give the edge to him over Giotto or Duccio. It’s a small edge but that speaks volumes considering the company. I saw one last year at the Louvre. Can you imagine insuring a Memling for a touring show?
Or lending one?
That’s a risk of massive proportions and a massive demonstration of true humanity and more importantly, culture.