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"It is good candles which light the way"

Jacob Jordaens

1644

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque Baroque Allegory

Dominant colour

"It is good candles which light the way" is a 1644 ink by Jacob Jordaens, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Jacob Jordaens
When & what style?: 1644 · Baroque
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This painting shows a group of people gathered around a table, with one woman holding a large jug and another woman sitting beside her. The scene is set in a dimly lit room, with the only light source coming from a candle on the table. The figures are dressed in simple, rustic clothing, and their facial expressions convey a sense of quiet contemplation. The artist's use of pen, ink, and wash creates a sense of depth and texture, with the dark shadows and light highlights adding to the overall mood of the piece. The composition is balanced, with the figures arranged in a harmonious and natural way. The painting is an allegory, inviting the viewer to reflect on the importance of guidance and illumination in life. To learn more about the artist's use of light and shadow, explore the technique of cross-hatching.