Rogier Van Der Weyden was a prominent Flemish painter of the Northern Renaissance, born around 1400 in Tournai, Belgium. He is known for his detailed and emotive religious paintings, which often feature rich colors and intricate compositions. His work significantly influenced the development of oil painting in Europe. Van Der Weyden served as the official painter for the city of Brussels and created masterpieces such as the Descent from the Cross and the Portrait of a Man. His style is characterized by a strong sense of realism and emotional depth, making him one of the most important artists of his time.