Artwork
Cardinal-Infante Ferdinand of Austria

Cardinal-Infante Ferdinand of Austria is a color painting by Jan van den Hoecke. It dates from 1634 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
About this work
Overview
Cardinal-Infante Ferdinand of Austria is a 1634 portrait painting by Jan van den Hoecke, a Flemish artist who worked under Peter Paul Rubens and later served as a court painter in Vienna and Brussels. The work is now part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays Cardinal-Infante Ferdinand of Austria in formal, militaristic attire, conveying dignity and authority. His neutral expression and slight gaze to the right add depth to the otherwise formal demeanor.
Technique & Style
Van den Hoecke's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the intricately rendered armor, complete with gold accents and a visible red lining. The composition's simplicity—a light background, central figure with symbolic objects (sword and paper)—highlights the subject's stature.
History & Provenance
Created in 1634 during van den Hoecke's period of influence by Rubens, the painting later entered the Kunsthistorisches Museum's collection, where it remains.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jan van den Hoecke (baptised on 4 August 1611 – 1651) was a Flemish painter, draughtsman and designer of wall tapestries.


















