Kessel, Jan van d.Ä.

Description:

Antwerpen 1626 - 1679
29 x 23 cm
A bouquet of flowers in a glass vase. C. 1650/1670. Oil/canvas, relined.
Southern German private collection. Expert report by Dr. Klaus Ertz. In his floral still lifes, Kessel arranged a wide variety of flowers - often species that do not bloom at the same time in reality - into harmonious, almost scientific-looking compositions. In doing so, he combined artistic aesthetics with a keen interest in observing nature. The flowers appear fresh, colourful and vibrant, often complemented by insects such as butterflies or beetles, which further enliven the works.
Typical of van Kessel’s works are the small format and the delicate, almost miniature-like style of painting. His still lifes are not only decorative but also reflect the Baroque interest in transience and the beauty of nature. At the same time, they reveal the influence of the natural history studies of his time, through which art and science are closely intertwined in his paintings.