Artwork

Portrait of Nicolas Poussin

Portrait of Nicolas Poussin, by Daniel Seghers, oil, 1635
Portrait of Nicolas Poussin, by Daniel Seghers, oil, 1635

Portrait of Nicolas Poussin is an oil painting by Daniel Seghers. It dates from 1635 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw.

About this work

Overview

The Portrait of Nicolas Poussin is an oil painting created by Daniel Seghers, a Flemish Jesuit brother and painter, around 1635. It is a portrait surrounded by a floral arrangement, now held in the National Museum in Warsaw.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Nicolas Poussin, a man with long hair and a cloak, encircled by a vibrant yet varied floral arrangement. The contrast between blooming and wilting flowers may symbolize the transience of life.

Technique & Style

Seghers' use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth, with the flowers and leaves appearing to glow in the dim light. The arrangement of flowers and leaves in a circular pattern around the subject's head generates a sense of movement and energy, while the muted color palette contributes to an atmosphere of serenity.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Daniel Seghers

Artist

Daniel Seghers

Daniel Seghers (3 December 1590 – 2 November 1661) was a Flemish Jesuit brother and painter who specialized in flower still lifes.