Rogier van der Weyden was a prominent Flemish painter of the Northern Renaissance, born around 1399 in Tournai, present-day 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's most famous pieces include The Descent from the Cross and The Portrait of a Lady. His style is characterized by a strong focus on human emotion and realism, making his figures appear lifelike. He became a leading artist in Brussels, where he served as the city’s official painter.