Artwork

Portrait of Philippe Haneton with his seven sons and the apostle Philip

Portrait of Philippe Haneton with his seven sons and the apostle Philip, by Bernard Van Orley, oil, 1521
Portrait of Philippe Haneton with his seven sons and the apostle Philip, by Bernard Van Orley, oil, 1521

Portrait of Philippe Haneton with his seven sons and the apostle Philip is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Bernard Van Orley. It dates from 1521 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.

About this work

Overview

This 1521 oil painting by Bernard van Orley depicts a family group accompanied by a saint. It showcases the artist's skill in portraiture and his blending of Flemish and Renaissance styles.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows Philippe Haneton, a man in a black coat, surrounded by his seven sons. The apostle Philip, identifiable by his red robe and cross, stands behind them, suggesting a familial devotion or namesake connection.

Technique & Style

Van Orley employed chiaroscuro to create depth, and his brushwork is evident in the texture of the oil paint. The contrast between the warm, golden background and the cool tones of the figures' clothing adds to the painting's dimensionality.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held in the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. Van Orley, a Flemish artist associated with the Romanists, was influenced by Italian art, particularly Raphael, and worked in various mediums, including tapestry design and stained glass.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Bernard Van Orley

Artist

Bernard Van Orley

Bernard van Orley (between 1487 and 1491 – 6 January 1541), also called Barend or Barent van Orley, Bernaert van Orley or Barend van Brussel, was a versatile Flemish artist and representative of Dutch and Flemish…