How did Gothic panel paintings portray scenes from the New Testament?

Gothic panel paintings, which gained prominence in the early 14th century as decorations for the retable (the ornamental panel behind an altar), primarily featured scenes and figures from the New Testament, with a particular focus on the Passion of Christ and the Virgin Mary.1

These works were characterized by several distinct stylistic elements:

• Stylistic Evolution: Early paintings moved from stiff, hieratic forms toward more natural and relaxed depictions.1
• Aesthetic Details: Artists emphasized flowing, curving lines, minute detail, and refined decoration. Gold was frequently applied to the panels to serve as a background color.1
• Spatial Depth: Over time, compositions became increasingly complex as painters experimented with techniques to depict spatial depth, a progression that eventually contributed to the mastery of perspective during the Italian Renaissance.1

While these panels were central to religious expression, they evolved alongside other forms of mural painting and manuscript illuminations, eventually transitioning into the Renaissance style at different rates across Europe.1