Artwork

Landscape with Orpheus and the Animals

Landscape with Orpheus and the Animals, by Roelant Savery, paint, 1611
Landscape with Orpheus and the Animals, by Roelant Savery, paint, 1611

Landscape with Orpheus and the Animals is a paint painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Roelant Savery. It dates from 1611 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

Landscape with Orpheus and the Animals, painted in 1611 by Roelant Savery, is a characteristic work of the Dutch Golden Age. It combines a serene natural setting with a mythological figure, showcasing Savery's signature blend of detailed landscapes and allegorical themes.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Orpheus, the mythological musician, surrounded by a diverse assembly of animals in a forest. This tranquil scene likely conveys the harmonious relationship between nature and art, as embodied by Orpheus's enchanting music.

Technique & Style

Savery employed a muted color palette dominated by greens, browns, and blues to evoke a sense of calm. Intricate details in the foliage and varied animal poses create depth and a sense of movement, highlighting his mastery of naturalistic rendering.

History & Provenance

Created in 1611, the painting is now part of the collection at the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Roelant Savery

Artist

Roelant Savery

Roelant Savery (or Roeland(t) Maertensz Saverij, or de Savery, or many variants; 1576 – buried 25 February 1639) was a Flanders-born Dutch Golden Age painter.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Gemäldegalerie Berlin open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.