Artwork
The Four Continents: Africa
The Four Continents: Africa is a copper painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Jan van Kessel the Elder. It dates from 1665 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.
About this work
Overview
The Four Continents: Africa is a 1665 copper painting by Jan van Kessel the Elder, a Flemish Baroque artist active in Antwerp. It is part of a series representing the four continents.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a personification of Africa through a scene featuring various figures and symbolic elements, including animals and architectural motifs. The composition is crowded with people and creatures, conveying a sense of activity and interaction.
Technique & Style
Executed on copper, the work showcases van Kessel's skill in rendering detailed, allegorical scenes. The color palette is characterized by muted tones, with browns and tans predominating.
History & Provenance
The painting is now held in the Alte Pinakothek, having been created as part of a series of continental personifications.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jan van Kessel the Elder or Jan van Kessel (I) (baptized 5 April 1626, Antwerp – 17 April 1679, Antwerp) was a Flemish painter active in Antwerp in the mid-17th century.
