Artwork

Portrait of the Cologne banker and collector Everhard Jabach with his family

Portrait of the Cologne banker and collector Everhard Jabach with his family is a paint painting by the French Classical Baroque artist Charles Le Brun. It dates from 1690 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

This 1690 painting by Charles Le Brun is a formal family portrait. It depicts Everhard Jabach, a Cologne banker and collector, with his family in an elegant setting.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows Jabach seated on a chair beside his wife on a couch, holding an infant, surrounded by four other children and a dog. The family's formal attire and the refined decor suggest a display of their social status.

Technique & Style

Le Brun's use of chiaroscuro creates a strong contrast between light and dark areas, adding depth to the scene. The painting's classical Baroque style reflects Le Brun's influence from Nicolas Poussin and his role in shaping French art during the 17th century.

Context

The room's decor, including tapestries, a globe, a book, and a statue, indicates the family's wealth and cultural interests. A large mirror above the couch adds to the sense of opulence.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Charles Le Brun

Charles Le Brun (French pronunciation: ; baptised 24 February 1619 – 12 February 1690) was a French painter, physiognomist, art theorist, and a director of several art schools of his time.