Artwork

White Bust in a Flower and Fruit Garland

White Bust in a Flower and Fruit Garland, by Jan van den Hecke, oil, 1647
White Bust in a Flower and Fruit Garland, by Jan van den Hecke, oil, 1647

White Bust in a Flower and Fruit Garland is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Jan van den Hecke. It dates from 1647 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Overview

White Bust in a Flower and Fruit Garland is a 1647 oil painting by Jan van den Hecke the Elder, combining portraiture and still-life elements within the Flemish Baroque tradition.

Subject & Meaning

The painting centers on a white bust encircled by a vibrant, dynamic garland of multicolored flowers and fruit, blending figural and floral genres.

Technique & Style

Van den Hecke employed chiaroscuro and impasto to achieve textured depth, with a circular composition that conveys energy through the flowing arrangement of flora.

History & Provenance

Created in 1647, the work is now part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum's collection, reflecting the artist's broader practice spanning still lifes, landscapes, and battle scenes.

Context

Rooted in Flemish Baroque, the piece reflects van den Hecke's training in Antwerp and influences from his time in Rome, later working in Brussels and Antwerp.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jan van den Hecke

Artist

Jan van den Hecke

Jan van den Hecke or Jan van den Hecke the Elder (1620–1684) was a Flemish Baroque painter, draughtsman, printmaker and engraver, mainly known for his still lifes, landscapes and battle scenes.