Who painted The Vision of the Sunday Child?

The Vision of the Sunday Child was painted by Cornelis Saftleven in 1660.

Where can I see The Vision of the Sunday Child?

The Vision of the Sunday Child is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

What movement is The Vision of the Sunday Child?

The Vision of the Sunday Child is associated with Dutch Golden Age.

Artwork

The Vision of the Sunday Child

Cornelis Saftleven , 1660

The Vision of the Sunday Child is an unspecified painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Cornelis Saftleven. It dates from 1660 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

The Vision of the Sunday Child, painted by Cornelis Saftleven in 1660, is a Dutch Golden Age allegory that juxtaposes everyday elements with symbolic meaning, creating a contemplative and mysterious atmosphere.

Subject & Meaning

At the painting's core is a child enveloped in a dreamlike, dark scene, surrounded by objects (a book, candle) and distant figures, symbolically blending the mundane with abstract, introspective themes.

Technique & Style

Saftleven employed chiaroscuro to create dramatic light and dark contrasts, while bold, expressive brushstrokes impart a sense of dynamic energy, enhancing the scene's depth and texture.

History & Provenance

Created during the Dutch Golden Age's flourishing artistic period, the painting is now part of the Statens Museum for Kunst's collection, where it remains on display.

Artist & collection

Artist

Cornelis Saftleven

Cornelis Saftleven (c. 1607 in Gorinchem – 1 June 1681 in Rotterdam) was a Dutch painter who worked in a great variety of genres. Known in particular for his rural genre scenes, his range of subjects was very wide and…