Concert was painted by Jan Cossiers in 1655.

Where can I see Concert?

Concert is held by Hermitage Museum.

What movement is Concert?

Concert is associated with Flemish Baroque painting.

Can I buy a print of Concert?

Museum-quality prints of Concert are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Concert

Jan Cossiers , 1655

Concert is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Jan Cossiers. It dates from 1655 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1655, Concert is an oil painting by the Antwerp‑based Flemish artist Jan Cossiers. Executed during the later phase of the Flemish Baroque, the work depicts a small interior scene illuminated by a single light source, drawing attention to the three figures arranged around a central space.

Subject & Meaning

The composition presents three individuals within a dimly lit room. The figure on the right, dressed in an elaborate costume, holds a diminutive object, while the central figure in a white shirt gazes toward this companion. A partially concealed figure on the left offers only a hand and a fragment of a face, suggesting a narrative of private musical or social interaction.

Technique & Style

Cossiers employs the dramatic chiaroscuro typical of Baroque painting, using a focused light to model the faces and fabrics against a dark background. The oil medium allows for fine detailing of textures, from the sheen of luxurious garments to the subtle rendering of skin, reflecting the artist’s skill in combining naturalism with theatrical effect.

History & Provenance

After establishing himself as a prominent painter in Antwerp following Rubens’ death, Cossiers produced Concert as part of his mature output. The painting entered the collection of the State Hermitage Museum, where it remains on display, representing the artist’s contribution to mid‑17th‑century Flemish art.

Context

Concert illustrates the shift in Cossiers’ career from early Caravaggesque genre scenes toward more refined, courtly subjects. The work aligns with the Baroque fascination with music and convivial gatherings, serving both as a visual record of contemporary attire and as an example of the period’s interest in the interplay of light, texture, and narrative.