Artwork

Self-Portrait of the Artist with his Wife Suzanne Cock and their Children

Self-Portrait of the Artist with his Wife Suzanne Cock and their Children is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Cornelis de Vos. It dates from 1627 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.

About this work

The painting is done in oil paint and features a range of colors, from dark browns and blacks to lighter shades of beige and white.

This painting shows a family of eight, with the father, mother, and six children, all dressed in 17th-century clothing. The father is standing on the right, wearing a dark robe and holding a bow and arrow. The mother is seated on the left, wearing a dark dress and a white collar.

The children are all around their parents, with the youngest child sitting on the floor in front of the mother. The painting is done in oil paint and features a range of colors, from dark browns and blacks to lighter shades of beige and white.

The family is depicted in a formal setting, with a serious expression on their faces. The painting is a great example of a family portrait from the 17th century. Next, explore more works by artist Cornelis de Vos.

Overview

This oil painting, created around 1627, depicts Cornelis de Vos with his family. It is a characteristic example of a Flemish Baroque family portrait, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing intimate domestic scenes.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows de Vos, his wife Suzanne Cock, and their six children in formal attire, conveying a sense of family unity and stability. The father's pose, holding a bow and arrow, may suggest a symbolic or metaphorical significance.

Technique & Style

The work is notable for its use of chiaroscuro and a range of colors, from dark tones to lighter shades, creating a sense of depth and nuance. De Vos's style is characterized by sensitivity and attention to detail, particularly in his depiction of children and family groups.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held in the Ashmolean Museum's collection. Cornelis de Vos, a Flemish painter and art dealer based in Antwerp, was known to collaborate with prominent artists like Peter Paul Rubens, reflecting his involvement in the artistic circles of his time.