Who painted Human Law Founded on the Divine Justice?

Human Law Founded on the Divine Justice was painted by Jacob Jordaens in 1665.

Where can I see Human Law Founded on the Divine Justice?

Human Law Founded on the Divine Justice is held by Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.

What movement is Human Law Founded on the Divine Justice?

Human Law Founded on the Divine Justice is associated with Flemish Baroque painting.

Can I buy a print of Human Law Founded on the Divine Justice?

Museum-quality prints of Human Law Founded on the Divine Justice are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Human Law Founded on the Divine Justice

Jacob Jordaens , 1665

Human Law Founded on the Divine Justice is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Jacob Jordaens. It dates from 1665 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.

About this work

Overview

Human Law Founded on the Divine Justice, a 1665 oil painting by Jacob Jordaens, embodies the Flemish Baroque style. Created during Jordaens's prominence as a leading Baroque painter in Flanders following the deaths of Rubens and Anthony van Dyck, the work is characterized by its allegorical theme and dramatic composition.

Subject & Meaning

These elements collectively represent the balance and authority underlying the relationship between heavenly and earthly justice.

The painting allegorically explores the intersection of divine justice and human law. A central female figure, symbolizing justice, is depicted with a sword and scale, accompanied by a lion, winged figure with a trumpet, a bearded man pointing to a written tablet, and two cherubs with a bow and scale. These elements collectively represent the balance and authority underlying the relationship between heavenly and earthly justice.

Technique & Style

Jordaens employed chiaroscuro to achieve depth and volume in the scene, set against a dramatic, clouded background. The composition's intensity and the use of contrasting light and dark typify the Flemish Baroque style, emphasizing emotional and visual impact.

History & Provenance

Executed in 1665, the painting is part of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp's collection, reflecting Jordaens's prolific output in biblical, mythological, allegorical, genre, and portrait works during the 17th century.

Context

Within the broader context of 17th-century Flemish art, this work showcases Jordaens's adaptation of Baroque elements to allegorical subjects, distinguishing his style amidst the era's dominant themes and artistic innovations.

Legacy

As a representative piece of Jordaens's oeuvre, Human Law Founded on the Divine Justice contributes to the artist's reputation as a foremost Flemish Baroque painter, influencing subsequent generations through its thematic depth and technical mastery.