Look at the Mérode Altarpiece by Robert Campin. In what way did this
painting make art history?

It is an important piece for the Renaissance of Netherlands, full of discrete symbolism which marks a unique approach to religious art.

Explanation:

Mérode Altarpiece also known as Annunciation Triptych is one of the most elaborate and beautiful early Netherlandish paintings. It is especially important for art history because of its amazing style, richness, and symbolism.

The scene shows Mary getting annunciation by Archangel Gabriel that she is to bring Jesus Christ, son of God, into this world. The scene is set in the domestic environment, without evident descriptions of holiness. But when looked closely, we see all the small details adding to the artistry. Lilies, white towels, and the fountain symbolize the purity of the Virgin Mary, while a half-closed window suggests she is ending this phase of life and entering motherhood. There is a small figure of a baby child above Gabriel, brought into the room by the golden ray of light – the coming of the baby Christ. On the right, we see Joseph working in his workshop with objects that represent various theological ideas – saw reminding is of the story of St Peter cutting off Malchus‘s ear for the betrayal, mouse trap suggesting Jesus is „devil‘s mouse-trap“, nails, hammer, log and pliers that foresee the crucifixion.

The importance of the painting also lies in the fact that it is one of the first done in Renaissance style after the Gothics. It is also done in a rich style and realism, which adds a lot to its artistic value as one of the art pieces of history.