Artwork
John II, Duke of Brabant, 1306
John II, Duke of Brabant, 1306 is an oil painting by Jan August Hendrik Leys. It dates from 1860 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.
About this work
Overview
John II, Duke of Brabant, 1306 is a portrait painted in oil by Jan August Hendrik Leys in 1860. It is now held in the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a medieval nobleman, likely John II, Duke of Brabant, holding a rolled-up document and a shield with a coat of arms featuring lions, indicating his family crest or allegiance. His attire, including a red hat and green cloak, suggests a high-ranking figure from the 14th century.
Technique & Style
Leys, a Belgian painter known for his historical and genre works, executed this portrait in a style that reflects his background in the Romantic school and his later influence on Belgian Realism. The detailed depiction of the subject's clothing and accessories showcases Leys' skill in rendering historical attire.
History & Provenance
Jan August Hendrik Leys, born in 1815, was a prominent figure in Belgian art, transitioning from the Romantic school to pioneering Realism. This painting, created in 1860, is a representation of his work during this period.
Artist & collection
Artist
Henri Leys, Hendrik Leys or Jan August Hendrik, Baron Leys (18 February 1815 – 26 August 1869) was a Belgian painter and printmaker.
Jan Borluut, Patrician of Ghent
Henry VII, Holy Roman Emperor, 1309
Sigismund, Holy Roman Emperor, 1415
Tiedeman van den Bergh
Philip of Alsace
St Stanislaus (obverse); Archangel Gabriel from the Scene of the Annunciation (reverse). Wing of the altar retable from Snoza
Jan Borluut
Dean of the Armed Guild of Saint George
Dean of the Armed Guild of Saint George
Cavaler cruciat