Artwork
Hearing
Hearing is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Unknown. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Rose-Marie and Eijk van Otterloo Collection.
About this work
Overview
The work is an oil painting titled Hearing, depicting a solitary figure engaged in playing a wooden flute. The subject is dressed in a vivid red hat adorned with a feather and a dark green‑black costume. Set against an unadorned dark background, the composition isolates the musician, allowing the facial features and hands to dominate the visual field.
Subject & Meaning
The central figure’s act of blowing into a flute suggests a focus on auditory experience, perhaps alluding to the relationship between sound and visual perception. The bright hat and feather introduce a note of individuality or cultural reference, while the muted surroundings emphasize the intimate, private moment of music-making.
Technique & Style
Rendered in oil, the painting employs chiaroscuro to model the face and hands, creating a three‑dimensional effect through strong contrasts of light and shadow. Fine brushwork conveys the texture of skin and the delicate grip on the instrument, while the flat, dark backdrop prevents distraction, reinforcing the dramatic lighting.
History & Provenance
No specific provenance details are provided for Hearing; the work is identified solely by its title, medium, and visual description. Further research would be required to trace its creation date, artist, or ownership history.
Artist & collection
Museum
Rose-Marie and Eijk van Otterloo Collection
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