Who painted Benedictus van Thulden, prieur de l'abbé de Saint-Bernard?

Benedictus van Thulden, prieur de l'abbé de Saint-Bernard was painted by Theodoor van Thulden in 1660.

Where can I see Benedictus van Thulden, prieur de l'abbé de Saint-Bernard?

Benedictus van Thulden, prieur de l'abbé de Saint-Bernard is held by Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.

What movement is Benedictus van Thulden, prieur de l'abbé de Saint-Bernard?

Benedictus van Thulden, prieur de l'abbé de Saint-Bernard is associated with French Classical Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Benedictus van Thulden, prieur de l'abbé de Saint-Bernard?

Museum-quality prints of Benedictus van Thulden, prieur de l'abbé de Saint-Bernard are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Benedictus van Thulden, prieur de l'abbé de Saint-Bernard

Theodoor van Thulden , 1660

Benedictus van Thulden, prieur de l'abbé de Saint-Bernard is an oil painting by the French Classical Baroque artist Theodoor van Thulden. It dates from 1660 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.

About this work

Overview

The work is an oil portrait executed in 1660 by the Flemish painter Theodoor van Thulden. It portrays a man identified as Benedictus van Thulden, prieur de l'abbé de Saint‑Bernard, and is part of the collection of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is shown seated on a wooden chair upholstered in red with gilded trim, dressed in a white robe. He holds a black hat in his right hand, while his left hand extends outward, the index finger directed downward, suggesting a gesture of emphasis or instruction. The architectural backdrop—a stone wall with an arched doorway and a small window—reinforces a formal, ecclesiastical setting.

Technique & Style

Van Thulden employs chiaroscuro to model the figure, using contrasts of light and shadow to give the robe and chair a palpable volume. The rendering of textures, from the smooth fabric to the polished wood, demonstrates the artist’s skill in oil painting, while the restrained palette underscores the portrait’s dignified tone.

History & Provenance

Created in the mid‑seventeenth century, the painting entered the holdings of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp, where it remains on display. Its provenance traces back to the original patron, the prieur of the abbey of Saint‑Bernard, reflecting the customary practice of commissioning portraits to commemorate clerical officeholders.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Theodoor van Thulden

Theodoor van Thulden (9 August 1606 – 12 July 1669) was a Flemish painter, draughtsman and engraver born in 's-Hertogenbosch in the duchy of Brabant.

Museum

Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp

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