Artwork
Vertumnus și Pomona (în Reg. Inv.: Vertumnus și Flora)
Vertumnus și Pomona (în Reg. Inv.: Vertumnus și Flora) is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Hugo Kołłątaj. It is held in the collection of the Brukenthal National Museum.
About this work
Overview
The work titled *Vertumnus și Pomona* (also catalogued as *Vertumnus și Flora*) depicts two closely positioned figures against a dark backdrop.
The work titled *Vertumnus și Pomona* (also catalogued as *Vertumnus și Flora*) depicts two closely positioned figures against a dark backdrop. The left figure is clothed in a loosely draped garment and holds a cluster of grapes or berries, while the right figure is bare‑chested, covered only by a draped cloth over the shoulders, and bears a solemn expression. The stark contrast between light and shadow emphasizes the forms.
Subject & Meaning
The composition suggests a mythological theme, likely referencing the Roman deities Vertumnus and Pomona, who are associated with the changing seasons and fruitfulness. The presence of grapes or berries reinforces the connection to harvest and fertility, while the serious demeanor of the male figure may allude to the god’s persuasive courtship of the nymph Pomona.
Technique & Style
The painting employs chiaroscuro, a lighting technique that creates dramatic contrasts between illuminated areas and deep shadows. This method enhances the three‑dimensionality of the bodies and highlights the textures of the drapery and skin. The dark background serves to isolate the figures, making their outlines and the fruit motif stand out sharply.
History & Provenance
Listed in the museum’s inventory under the Romanian title *Vertumnus și Pomona* and alternatively as *Vertumnus și Flora*, the work’s acquisition details and earlier ownership remain undocumented in the available records. No further information on its creation date or artist is provided.
Artist & collection
Artist
This Polish folk painter worked in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, creating religious scenes with bold colors and simple shapes.
Alexandru Ipsilanti
Fecioara Maria cu Pruncul Isus (în Reg. Inv.: Maria cu copilul Isus)
Regele Charles I Stuart al Angliei și soția sa Henrietta Maria de Franța (în Reg. Inv.: Carol I al Angliei și soția sa Henriette din Franța)
Sfântul Haralambie cu alți doi sfinți
Portret de bărbat
Sfântul Gheorghe
Iarnă
Sfântul Petru
