Allegory of the city of Antwerp

Artist Theodoor Van Thulden Flemish, 1606 - 1669

Date1625-1669

Period17th century

Classification(s)

Art / Paintings

Object TypePainting

Registration NumberFAS/P/189

DescriptionThe largest canvas at MUŻA is this ‘Allegory of the city of Antwerp’ by the Flemish Baroque painter, Theodoor van Thulden. The attributes of mythological figures are ascribed in praise to the city of Antwerp. Fame sounds her trumpet while the Gorgon lies defeated at the feet of Chronos who personifies time. Amaltheia, with a Horn of Plenty overflowing with gold and riches, is accompanied by Mercury, god of commerce. Demeter, goddess of agriculture and fertility, holding a Cornucopia of fruit and crops, lifts the veil to reveal a personification of Antwerp in all her beauty and splendour. A river god, representing the waters of Antwerp’s large and busy harbour, observes the putti playing. A beautiful and noble peacock sits high on the rocks on the right. This painting is from Van Thulden’s middle period showing the impact of Peter Paul Rubens with whom he collaborated. It is possibly a commission from his time in Antwerp.Material

Oil on canvas

Technique

Painting

DimensionsFramed: 305 x 383 cm Unframed: 275 x 345 cmProvenanceDonated by Mrs Salvina Zahra of New York in 1964.

Alternate ID Numbers