Artwork

An Allegory of Abundance

An Allegory of Abundance, by Hendrick van Balen the Elder, oil, 1631
An Allegory of Abundance, by Hendrick van Balen the Elder, oil, 1631

An Allegory of Abundance is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Hendrick van Balen the Elder. It dates from 1631 and is held in the collection of the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

About this work

Overview

An Allegory of Abundance is a 1631 oil painting by Hendrick van Balen the Elder, a prominent Flemish Baroque artist known for small, detailed works on copper, often featuring mythological or allegorical themes.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a vibrant, overflowing abundance of fruits, flowers, and leaves from baskets and vases, set against a serene, distant landscape, symbolizing prosperity and fertility.

Technique & Style

Van Balen employed chiaroscuro to create depth and volume, alongside meticulous attention to detail in textures and colors, characteristic of his refined Baroque style.

History & Provenance

Part of the Flemish Baroque movement, the work is now in the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Van Balen's influence extended to teaching notable artists like Anthony van Dyck.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Hendrick van Balen the Elder

Artist

Hendrick van Balen the Elder

Hendrick van Balen or Hendrick van Balen I (c. 1573–1575 – 17 July 1632) was a Flemish Baroque painter and stained glass designer. Hendrick van Balen specialised in small cabinet pictures often painted on a copper…