Iconodiagnosis as the key to establishing the identity of the so-called Niccolò Albergati portrait? Multiple signs of ear lobe disease in van Eyck's paintings (15th century)

Abstract

In this essay, we will first look at an iconodiagnosis of a portrait by van Eyck (15th century), showing notably an ear lobe crease. Frank's sign is then compared with contextual and pathographic data relating to eminent cardinals during Hundred Years’ War, Albergati and Beaufort, who both could have been the model of this enigmatic painting. After discussing how iconodiagnosis may also contribute to respond to an art enigma, we will present the Frank's sign within van Eyck's overall work, highlighting the historical presence of ear lobe disease. To the best of our knowledge, these artworks could be the earliest known paintings depicting Frank's sign, and may provide a rough idea of its prevalence in Western Europe, 15th century.