Artwork
Midas's Judgement
Midas's Judgement is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Hendrick van Balen the Elder. It dates from 1605 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.
About this work
Overview
Midas's Judgement is a 1605 copper painting by Hendrick van Balen the Elder, a Flemish Baroque artist. The work exemplifies his preference for copper as a medium for small-scale compositions.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates a classical mythological narrative, specifically King Midas's arbitration in a dispute between the gods Apollo and Pan, highlighting van Balen's focus on mythological themes.
Technique & Style
Executed on copper, a medium van Balen often chose for smaller works, the painting showcases his technical proficiency and stylistic inclination towards detailed, intimate Baroque compositions.
History & Provenance
Created in 1605, the painting reflects van Balen's contribution to the early 17th-century Flemish painting revival. Notably, van Balen later mentored Anthony van Dyck, influencing the next generation of artists.
Context
Within the broader art historical context, Midas's Judgement represents the Flemish Baroque's engagement with classical mythology, a theme that resonated with the cultural and intellectual climate of the time.
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Artist & collection
Artist
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…
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