Artwork
Ansichten aus den vier Weltteilen mit Szenen von Tieren: Peking
Ansichten aus den vier Weltteilen mit Szenen von Tieren: Peking is an unspecified painting by Ferdinand van Kessel the Elder. It dates from 1682 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
About this work
Overview
Ferdinand van Kessel the Elder, a Flemish Baroque artist recognized for his detailed landscapes and still lifes, created Ansichten aus den vier Weltteilen mit Szenen von Tieren: Peking around 1682. This painting is part of a larger series depicting the four continents, presenting a vibrant array of animals set against a distant view of Beijing's fortifications. It is currently housed in the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
Subject & Meaning
These lively birds populate the foreground, some perched in trees or near a stream, others in flight.
The composition features a dense gathering of diverse avian species, including parrots, kingfishers, peacocks, and sulphur-crested cockatoos, rendered with vivid plumage. These lively birds populate the foreground, some perched in trees or near a stream, others in flight. In the background, the distinctive city walls and towers of Beijing are faintly visible, grounding the exotic animal display within a specific geographical context.
Technique & Style
Van Kessel's approach to this work emphasizes a rich, detailed naturalism, particularly in the depiction of the birds. The palette is characterized by bold reds, blues, and greens, which highlight the varied textures and forms of the feathers. The artist's technique creates a dynamic and crowded scene, presenting a "parade" of different species within a single, lively tableau, showcasing his skill in rendering intricate animal forms.
Artist & collection
Artist
Ferdinand van Kessel the Elder
Ferdinand van Kessel (1648 – 1696), was a Flemish Baroque painter known for his landscapes, still lifes and genre pieces with monkeys.
