Artwork

Allegory of the Five Senses

Allegory of the Five Senses, by Gerard de Lairesse, oil, 1668
Allegory of the Five Senses, by Gerard de Lairesse, oil, 1668

Allegory of the Five Senses is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Gerard de Lairesse. It dates from 1668 and is held in the collection of the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

About this work

Overview

Allegory of the Five Senses is a 1668 oil painting by Gerard de Lairesse, a Dutch artist known for his work in multiple creative fields. The painting is an allegory, representing abstract concepts through symbolic objects and figures.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a group of elaborately dressed people gathered around a laden table in an ornate room, surrounded by objects representing the five senses. The scene conveys luxury and refinement, using the senses as a theme to explore the human experience.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by its high level of detail, with intricate textures and patterns on clothing and furniture. The color palette is muted, emphasizing earth tones and rich fabrics, and the composition is marked by the use of chiaroscuro.

History & Provenance

Created in 1668, Allegory of the Five Senses reflects the artistic shifts in the Netherlands following Rembrandt's death, influenced by Cesare Ripa and French classicists. The painting is now held in the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Gerard de Lairesse

Artist

Gerard de Lairesse

Gerard or Gérard (de) Lairesse (French pronunciation: ; 11 September 1641 – June 1711) was a Dutch Golden Age painter and art theorist.