Focus on Adoration of the Magi (Mostaert) and discuss the Iconography.
Many aspects of the iconography and composition of the painting are very similar to other Netherlandish depictions of this very popular subject from around this time, but some details are unusual.The Magi represent both the "three ages of man" and the three continents known to the medieval world.  Melchior is traditionally shown as middle-aged and represents Asia; he is often specified as Persian.  Most often it is Caspar, representing old age and Europe, whose moment of presentation of his gold is shown, but here presumably the donor's age suited a Melchior better.  As usual, Balthazar, representing youth and Africa, is waiting his turn.Compositions showing the main figures at half-length, across the front of the image space, were an innovation of Hugo van der Goes late in the 15th century; two versions survive in early copies. They allow a closer and more intimate concentration on the main figures.  Mostaert does not quite do this, and his vertical image format allows plenty of space above for the ruins, landscape, and retinues. However, he uses a smaller version of the table or ledge at the front centre.The stable of the account in the Gospel of Luke had often evolved into a ruined palace in paintings of the Nativity and the subsequent scenes. This was held to represent the palace of King David, who was also born in Bethlehem, and also symbolized the dilapidated state of the Old Covenant.  The two poorly dressed men in the mid-ground above Melchior's head probably represent the shepherds arriving at the scene, as do the similar figures in Jan Gossaert's Adoration of the Kings (National Gallery).  Both paintings show the ox and ass, but not prominently; they had only become usual in depictions of the Adoration of the Magi in the previous century.The costumes are mostly exotic versions of "modern" styles, and Mary's unusually rich dress has a "fashionable neckline", not to mention pearls hanging from the sleeve.  The Magi dress richly, but without the extravagant exoticism found in many depictions by contemporary Antwerp Mannerists.  Melchior wears a travelling cloak with a fashionable Spanish-style hood.
Jan Gossaert Iconography National Gallery Mostaert Caspar Bethlehem Old Covenant Hugo van der Goes Adoration of the Kings Antwerp Mannerists David King David Melchior Gospel of Luke Adoration of the Magi iconography paintings of the Nativity three continents Balthazar