‘The bagpiper’ by Jordaens

In 2009 the King Baudouin Foundation acquired the painting ‘The Bagpiper’ by Jacob Jordaens (1593-1678) through the Courtin-Bouché fund. After a meticulous restoration the painting has been given on long-term loan to the Rubens House. Apparently the painting shows the artist himself, as a robust fifty-year old. It is an excellent example of his art c. 1640-1645. During this period his work is characterised by a controlled, carefully contrived composition and virtuoso brush strokes.

Jordaens, who is widely considered as one of the three most important Baroque painters in the southern Netherlands, preferred popular scenes with real characters. The bagpipes were an instrument that was widely used by the lower classes. As the rich higher classes had a predilection for popular scenes, Jordaens’ exuberant portrayals of such scenes were in demand. After the restoration the painting will be exhibited together with other work by Jordaens. Afterwards the painting will be incorporated in the museum’s permanent collection.

Event starts November 10, 2010 and ends January 9, 2011