Artwork

Triumph of the three Christian Virtues

Triumph of the three Christian Virtues, by Jacob de Wit, oil, 1734
Triumph of the three Christian Virtues, by Jacob de Wit, oil, 1734

Triumph of the three Christian Virtues is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jacob de Wit. It dates from 1734 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.

About this work

Overview

Triumph of the three Christian Virtues is an oil painting created by Dutch artist Jacob de Wit around 1734, classified under the Rococo movement, and currently part of the Ashmolean Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a celestial scene with multiple figures, prominently featuring a woman in a red dress and a man in a green robe, all afloat amidst clouds, symbolizing the triumph of the three Christian virtues in a heavenly context.

Technique & Style

De Wit employed a dynamic composition, juxtaposing warm (red, green) and cool tones against a light beige background, enhanced by chiaroscuro to create depth and volume, characteristic of Rococo's emphasis on movement and light.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1734 by Jacob de Wit, known for religious themes and interior decoration, the work is now housed at the Ashmolean Museum.

Context

As a Rococo piece, it reflects the era's fondness for lighthearted, airy, and emotionally charged artworks, often with religious undertones, tailored to the tastes of 18th-century European aristocracy and religious institutions.

Legacy

While specific impact on the art world is not broadly documented, it contributes to the understanding of Rococo's reach in Dutch religious art and De Wit's contribution to the movement.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacob de Wit

Artist

Jacob de Wit

Jacob de Wit (19 December 1695 – 12 November 1754) was a Dutch painter and interior decorator. He is best known for his depictions of religious scenes.

Ashmolean Museum

Museum

Ashmolean Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Ashmolean Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.