Description
Jan Paul Gillemans the Elder (Antwerp 1618-1675)
Fruits before fountain with classical ruins and a landscape beyond
Oil on canvas, 76 x 63 cm. Frame: 91 x 77 cm
Signed lower right ‘Jan Paul Gillemans. fecit’
Provenance
Collection of Lily Venizelos, to support the MEDASSET Organization.
Catalogue Notes
JEAN-PAUL GILLEMANS I
(1618 – 1675)
Flemish painter, contemporary of Brueghel de Velours and Daniel Seghers, whose influence he was under. He became a Master in Antwerp in 1647 – 1648. A painter of flowers and fruits, he specialized mainly in fruit painting. His most frequent subjects, within the group of signed paintings, are Breakfasts or Fruit Garlands in landscapes, suspended from a baroque fountain or decorating a cartouche.
It is a charming piece, painted with the meticulousness of a miniaturist but possessing the beauty and the charm of a work of art. In the ensemble of this painter’s works, it remains curious despite its somewhat dark tone, which is intentional and gives depth to the landscape on the left. This effect enhances all the paintings from the late 17th century, producing a remarkable antiquated effect. There are three Gillemans: the father and two sons. This painting is by the father.