Description
The painting "Satyr at the Peasant's House" by artist Jacob Jordeens is an impressive work featuring a unique combination of artistic style, composition, and color. The painting, measuring 194.5 x 203.5 cm, is an outstanding example of the 17th-century Flemish Baroque.
The work depicts a satyr, a mythological creature with a human body and goat's legs, who finds himself in a country house with a group of peasants. The composition of the painting is very interesting, since the satyr is in the center of the scene, surrounded by the peasants who are watching him with astonishment and curiosity. The position of the satyr in the center of the painting and the use of perspective create a sense of depth and movement in the work.
Color is another prominent aspect of the painting. Jordeens uses a palette of vibrant and saturated colors to represent the satyr and the peasants. The use of bright and contrasting colors creates a sense of energy and vitality in the work.
The story behind the painting is also fascinating. It is believed that the work was painted for the palace of the Spanish royal family in Brussels, and that it was commissioned by the Governor of the Spanish Netherlands, Archduke Albert of Austria. The painting was considered one of the most important works in the royal collection and was exhibited in various places, including the Royal Palace in Madrid.
Also, there are little-known aspects of the painting that make it even more interesting. For example, Jordeens is believed to have used members of his own family as models for the peasants in the painting. It is also known that the work was restored several times over the years, and that several copies of it have been made.
In short, "Satyr at the Peasant's House" is an impressive work that combines artistic style, composition, color and a fascinating story behind it. It is a work that has been admired for centuries and remains one of the most important pieces of the Flemish Baroque of the 17th century.