Artwork
The Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes
The Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Ambrosius Francken I. It dates from 1600 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.
About this work
Overview
The Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes is a 1600 oil painting by Ambrosius Francken I, a Flemish artist of the late Mannerist period. It depicts a biblical miracle scene and showcases early Baroque influences.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates Jesus performing the miracle of feeding the multitude, symbolizing divine providence and abundance. Jesus, centrally seated, distributes bread while gesturing upwards, surrounded by a crowd on a hilly landscape.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil paint, the work features a vibrant color palette with varied greens, blues, yellows, and oranges. Francken's late Mannerist style, with early Baroque elements, is evident in the composition and expressive use of color.
History & Provenance
Created in 1600 by Ambrosius Francken I, a member of the prominent Francken family of Flemish artists, the painting is now part of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp's collection.
Context
The work reflects the artistic transition from Mannerism to Baroque in early 17th-century Flanders, influenced by Italian early Baroque movements. It also exemplifies the Francken family's impact on the Flemish art scene during this period.
Artist & collection
Artist
Ambrosius Francken I (1544/45–October 1618) was a Flemish painter known for his religious works and historical allegories painted in a late Mannerist style.
Feeding Of Five Thousand
Christ blessing the children
Predigt Johannes d. Täufers
Christ Curing a Possessed Man
The Last Supper
Then give to Caesar what is Caesar's
Transfiguration of Jesus (lunette)
Holy Trinity
The Last Supper
Christ Blessing the Children
Christ hands the keys to St. Peter
The Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes