Reclining Faun After A Bacchanale In The Forest, (xvii) Circle Of Jacob Jordaens (1593-1678)

(XVII) Circle of Jacob Jordaens (1593-1678)

Title: Reclining Faun After a Bacchanal in the Forest

Medium: Oil on canvas

Provenance: From a private French collection

Overall measurements with the frame are 102cm x 89cm x 5 cm and the painting measured at 86cm x 73cm

A highly decorative and finely composed 17th-century school, oil on canvas depicting a scene of revelry and mythological themes, likely referencing Hercules depicted as a faun.

The painting features classical figures, including a woman in flowing garments and cherubic children to the far right of the composition set in a lush, forest-like environment as dusk begins to set in.
Bacchanals were a common theme in art, representing celebrations and abundance.

The painting depicts a scene with fauns, nymphs, and two cherubs, common in ancient and Arcadian art. The style is reminiscent of a tableau, similar to ancient Greek vase paintings. Fauns are figures from Roman mythology, often associated with forests, fertility, and revelry, similar to the Greek satyr.

We think the painting most likely depicts an allegory on the theme of "The Drunken Hercules, led by a Nymph and a Satyr", and possibly influenced by a composition on this subject by Peter Paul Rubens from around 1614.

In the painting Hercules, depicted as a faun is, intoxicated and is being supported by a nymph and a satyr. Other figures include what could possibly be Pan, and cherubs to the far-right background.

The fruits in the foreground, symbolise the abundance, and the consequences of overindulgence are being clearly represented by the central character in the composition.

The scene illustrates a moment of weakness for the hero Hercules, contrasting with his usual strength. It explores themes of temptation, the loss of control, and the interplay between humans and mythological creatures.

Alternative interpretations suggest it could be "Hercules represented as a faun and Omphale," depicting Hercules in a moment of servitude or relaxation.

The painting is a fine example of Baroque art and is close to the tonality and structure of the work of Jacob Jordaens (1593-1678), which is highlighted by its dramatic atmosphere, rich colours, and dynamic figures.

The painting's composition and subject matter are typical of the 17th Flemish School, known for detailed and often allegorical scenes.

The work being offered reflects the 17th century interest in classical themes and mythology.

Condition report:

The painting is in good, historically cleaned and restored condition. There are areas of retouching, but well blended in general. There is craquelure throughout, but in general fine and well consolidated with the painting having been lined approximately 150 years ago with good canvas depth. The paint surface is stable. The canvas in good tension. The frame has been commissioned for the painting and is illustrated in the pictures and is offered as a gift, but is of a good quality.

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