Artwork

The contest of Apollo and Pan

The contest of Apollo and Pan, by Jan Brueghel, the elder, oil, 1600
The contest of Apollo and Pan, by Jan Brueghel, the elder, oil, 1600

The contest of Apollo and Pan is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Jan Brueghel, the elder. It dates from 1600 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

About this work

Overview

The contest of Apollo and Pan is a 1600 painting on copper by Jan Brueghel the Elder, a prominent Flemish Baroque artist and son of Pieter Bruegel the Elder.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a mythological scene, showing figures in a forest, some dressed in robes and others nude, with musical instruments, suggesting a narrative related to the myth of Apollo and Pan.

Technique & Style

Brueghel's use of chiaroscuro creates a contrast between light and dark, making the figures stand out against the shadowy forest background, drawing attention to their actions.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held in the Fitzwilliam Museum, exemplifying the Flemish Baroque style and reflecting Brueghel's collaborations with other notable artists like Peter Paul Rubens.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jan Brueghel, the elder

Artist

Jan Brueghel, the elder

Jan Brueghel the Elder ( BROY-gəl, US also BROO-gəl; Dutch:; 1568 – 13 January 1625) was a Flemish painter and draughtsman.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted The contest of Apollo and Pan?

The contest of Apollo and Pan was painted by Jan Brueghel, the elder in 1600.

Where can I see The contest of Apollo and Pan?

The contest of Apollo and Pan is held by Fitzwilliam Museum.

What movement is The contest of Apollo and Pan?

The contest of Apollo and Pan is associated with Flemish Baroque painting.

Can I buy a print of The contest of Apollo and Pan?

Museum-quality prints of The contest of Apollo and Pan are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.