Artwork
Untitled

Untitled is an unspecified painting by the Rococo painting artist Johannes Voorhout. It dates from 1698 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
The olive branch and horn are old symbols—peace means food, safety, and enough for everyone.
A woman sits on a cloud, holding an olive branch and a horn overflowing with fruit. A soldier runs away while a winged figure blows a trumpet. Two prisoners sit bound at the side.
This painting was meant to show peace bringing plenty. The olive branch and horn are old symbols—peace means food, safety, and enough for everyone. The fleeing soldier and prisoners suggest war is over. The artist is unknown, but the message was clear to people in 1698.
To see more works like this, visit the Rijksmuseum.
Overview
This untitled 1698 painting depicts a serene allegory of peace, conveyed through symbolic figures and objects, set against a backdrop that implies the cessation of conflict.
Subject & Meaning
A seated woman embodies peace, holding an olive branch (symbolizing peace) and a cornucopia (representing abundance). The fleeing warrior and bound prisoners at the edge underscore the end of war, while a winged figure (likely Fame) trumpeting in the background amplifies the message of peace ushering in prosperity.
Technique & Style
The artwork features a cloud-seated figure, winged allegorical beings, and symbolic objects, suggesting a Baroque influence in its compositional drama and use of allegory, though the artist's identity remains unknown.
History & Provenance
Created in 1698, the painting's original context and artist are unknown. It is now part of the Rijksmuseum's collection, where similar works can be viewed.
Context
The painting reflects the post-conflict aspirations of its time, using universally recognized symbols to convey the positive outcomes of peace, such as food security and safety.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Johannes Voorhout (11 November 1647 – 25 August 1717) was a Dutch painter of history paintings, portraits and genre scenes.













