Artwork

Painting of the battle painter Pieter Snayers

Painting of the battle painter Pieter Snayers, by Unknown, unspecified, 1620
Painting of the battle painter Pieter Snayers, by Unknown, unspecified, 1620

Painting of the battle painter Pieter Snayers is an unspecified painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1620 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections. The work is a monochrome portrait depicting a man with curly hair, a moustache and a high‑collared coat trimmed with lace.

About this work

History & Provenance

Its provenance traces to the Bavarian State Painting Collections, indicating institutional ownership and display at the Alte Pinakothek.

The work titled Painting of the battle painter Pieter Snayers is attributed to Anthonis van Dyck (after) and is part of the Bavarian State Painting Collections, housed in the Alte Pinakothek. It was created in 1620, with its inception recorded as 1620-01-01. The painting measures 28.7 cm in height and 20.9 cm in width, depicting Peter Snayers, and is classified as a history painting within the portrait genre.

Its provenance traces to the Bavarian State Painting Collections, indicating institutional ownership and display at the Alte Pinakothek.

The painting is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections and is located at the Alte Pinakothek. Created in 1620, the work measures 28.7 cm in height and 20.9 cm in width. The provided sources do not contain information regarding a specific inventory or accession number, nor do they list any past or current exhibitions for this piece.

Overview

The work is a monochrome portrait depicting a man with curly hair, a moustache and a high‑collared coat trimmed with lace. The figure is shown in three‑quarter view against an unadorned dark background, which isolates the sitter and concentrates attention on his facial expression.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter appears to be the Flemish battle painter Pieter Snayers, known for his depictions of 17th‑century military scenes. The serious, slightly turned gaze suggests a self‑presentation as a professional artist, emphasizing his identity and status within the artistic community of his time.

Technique & Style

Executed in black and white, the portrait relies on chiaroscuro to model the face, using strong contrasts of light and shadow to render the texture of hair, skin and lace. Subtle gradations of tone create depth, while the limited palette underscores the solemn character of the composition.

Context

Created in the Baroque period, the portrait reflects contemporary conventions of portraiture that emphasized realism and psychological presence. The emphasis on chiaroscuro aligns it with the broader Flemish tradition, where artists such as Rubens and van Dyck employed dramatic lighting to convey authority and gravitas.

Portrait of Cornelis van Poelenburgh
Portrait of Cornelis van Poelenburgh, Anthony van Dyck

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Painting of the battle painter Pieter Snayers?

Painting of the battle painter Pieter Snayers was painted by Unknown in 1620.

Where can I see Painting of the battle painter Pieter Snayers?

Painting of the battle painter Pieter Snayers is held by Bavarian State Painting Collections.

What movement is Painting of the battle painter Pieter Snayers?

Painting of the battle painter Pieter Snayers is associated with Flemish Baroque painting.