Who painted De werken van barmhartigheid?

De werken van barmhartigheid was painted by Frans Francken the Younger in 1621.

Where can I see De werken van barmhartigheid?

De werken van barmhartigheid is held by Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.

What movement is De werken van barmhartigheid?

De werken van barmhartigheid is associated with Flemish Baroque painting.

Can I buy a print of De werken van barmhartigheid?

Museum-quality prints of De werken van barmhartigheid are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

De werken van barmhartigheid

Frans Francken the Younger , 1621

De werken van barmhartigheid is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Frans Francken the Younger. It dates from 1621 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1621, *De werken van barmhartigheid* is an oil painting by Frans Francken the Younger, a prolific Antwerp‑based artist of the early seventeenth century. The work is part of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium’s collection and exemplifies the Flemish Baroque’s interest in lively, narrative scenes populated by figures from various social strata.

Subject & Meaning

The composition shows a bustling town square before a substantial stone edifice. A diverse crowd—men, women, children of differing ages and classes—engages in conversation, commerce, and everyday activity. At the centre, a focal figure draws the onlookers’ attention, suggesting a moral or charitable theme consistent with the title’s reference to works of mercy.

Technique & Style

Francken employs a warm palette to model depth, while strong chiaroscuro creates dramatic contrasts between illuminated figures and shadowed background. The painter’s handling of light accentuates the central group, imparting a sense of movement and immediacy typical of Flemish Baroque allegorical works.

History & Provenance

The painting entered the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium’s holdings, where it remains on display. Its provenance traces back to the artist’s workshop in Antwerp, reflecting Francken’s reputation for producing both independent canvases and collaborative pieces for altarpieces and decorative programs.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Frans Francken the Younger

Frans Francken the Younger (1581, Antwerp – 6 May 1642, Antwerp) was a Flemish painter and the best-known and most prolific member of the large Francken family of artists.

Museum

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

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