Artwork
Eagles on Rocks
Eagles on Rocks is an oil painting by Jan Fyt. It is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
Jan Fyt, a Flemish Baroque painter active in the 17th century, produced the oil painting *Eagles on Rocks*, now part of the Rijksmuseum’s collection. The work depicts three eagles perched on a rugged, stony surface beneath a cloudy sky, rendered with a muted yellow‑green atmosphere.
Subject & Meaning
The composition centers on a dominant eagle with slightly spread wings, flanked by two smaller birds that cluster together. The choice of raptors reflects Fyt’s lifelong interest in wildlife and hunting scenes, emphasizing the power and majesty of the animal kingdom.
Technique & Style
Fyt employs thick, textured brushwork to model the birds’ feathers, creating a tactile sense of volume. The rocky ground is suggested with rapid, uneven strokes that convey a natural, uneven terrain. Subtle contrasts of light and shadow enhance the three‑dimensional illusion, while the sky’s soft blending contributes to a calm, atmospheric backdrop.
History & Provenance
Created in the mid‑17th century, the painting entered the Rijksmuseum’s holdings through acquisition (specific details of its earlier ownership are not recorded in the available sources). It remains a representative example of Fyt’s animal studies within the museum’s European collection.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Jan Fijt, Jan Fijt or Johannes Fijt (or Fyt) (19 August 1609 – 11 September 1661) was a Flemish Baroque painter, draughtsman and etcher.
