Bouquet of Flowers with Sunflower, a Laurel Wreath, Sprig of Orange, Birds and Insects (Primary Title)
Bouquet of Flowers with Sunflower with a Laurel Wreath, Sprig of Orange, Birds and Insects (Former Title)
Jan Davidsz. de Heem, Dutch, 1606 - 1684 (Artist)
This exuberant floral arrangement illustrates how the
symbology of natural motifs was employed to serve the
monarchical political agendas during the Baroque era
in Europe. After a devastating and morally exhausting
war with France, Prince William III of Orange succeeded
in rallying a renewed hope among the Dutch populace
when he was appointed head of state in 1672. De Heem
composed this still life of an ornate bouquet in Antwerp
as a subtle tribute to the prince’s triumphant leadership.
By this time, the artist was nearing the end of his career
and had learned to seamlessly incorporate conventions
from both Dutch and Flemish pictorial traditions. In
addition to his expertise in the symbolism of plants, his
accomplishments as a naturalist aided him in rendering
specific qualities using delicate and flowing brushwork.
His support for William of Orange is unambiguously
conveyed by his somewhat obvious inclusion of an
orange and a laurel wreath, a long-standing emblem of
victory. Near the orange, a goldfinch—a bird symbolizing
Jesus Christ’s resurrection—signals that the return of
the Orange dynasty represents a potential rebirth for
the country. The morning glories and sunflower respond
to the sun’s motion, symbolizing the importance of
loyalty to a leader who embodies the light of truth.
signed bottom center: J.D. De Heem R
The Jordan and Thomas A. Saunders III Collection
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