Artwork
Vestal virgins
Vestal virgins is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Anthoni Schoonjans. It dates from 1698 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
About this work
Overview
Vestal virgins is a 1698 oil painting by Anthoni Schoonjans, a Flemish artist known for his portraits and narrative works.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the Vestal virgins, ancient Roman priestesses responsible for maintaining the sacred fire of Vesta, the goddess of the hearth.
Technique & Style
The work exemplifies the Flemish Baroque style, characterized by dramatic composition and rich detail, reflecting Schoonjans' training in Antwerp and his experience as a court painter in various European courts.
History & Provenance
Schoonjans was active across Europe, holding roles at courts including Vienna, and created Vestal virgins as part of his history paintings.
Artist & collection
Artist
Anthoni Schoonjans, nicknamed Parhasius (1655 – 13 August 1726) was a Flemish painter known for his portraits as well as his history paintings.
Joseph and Potiphar's Wife
Self-portrait of Anthon Schoonjans (1655-1726)
Narcissus admires his reflection in the water
The mocking of Christ
Portrait of an old lady
Portrait of an unknown lady
Portrait of Anna Maria Luisa de' Medici, electress of the Palatine (1667-1743)
Jacob blames Laban of his deception with Lea (Genesis 29:25-27)
The provinces of Brabant, Hainaut and Flanders pay homage to the Virgin
La Visitación
The Education of the Virgin Mary
Heimsuchung Mariae
The Annunciation
An Allegory: Fidelity
Margarita Trip as Minerva, Instructing her Sister Anna Maria Trip
Self-Portrait (Allegory of painting)
Martha scolding her vain sister Mary Magdalene
Annunciation to the Virgin
La Presentación de la Virgen en el Templo
Le Mariage mystique de sainte Catherine (Mystic Marriage of St Catherine)