Balthasar Van Den Bossche (Anversa, 1681 - 1715)

Balthasar Van Den Bossche (Antwerp, 1681 - 1715) Alexander the Great and Campaspe in the Studio of the Painter Apelles The painting was exhibited in Perugia (Museo di Palazzo della Penna) at the exhibition "RENAISSANCE IN THE WORKSHOP: PERUGINO AMONG THE GREATS OF HISTORY" (October 29, 2023 - January 28, 2024) - see photographic details - Link: https://turismo.comune.perugia.it/articoli/rinascimento-in-bottega-perugino-tra-i-grandi-della-stori... Oil on canvas 120 x 162 cm. - in gilded frame  135 x 176 cm. This fascinating painting, a true gem for any connoisseur and collector of antique paintings, depicting Alexander the Great in the studio of the painter Apelles to view the portrait of his favorite concubine Campaspe, is a quality work by the Flemish Balthasar Van Den Bossche (Antwerp 1681 - 1715). Born in Antwerp, he trained in the workshop of Gerard Thomas and, as early as 1697, was awarded the title of master in the Guild of Antwerp. He then moved to Paris, documented until 1700, where he founded his own studio, alternating his activity as a painter with that of an art dealer. The combination of the elegance of the French style with Flemish characteristics earned him enormous success among Parisian collectors. The collecting success of his creations was remarkable, obtaining the patronage of important personalities such as the Duke of Marlborough, his fervent patron. He finished his career in his hometown, with a flourishing workshop, specializing in paintings of interiors of studios and picture galleries. Our beautiful canvas, presumably executed between the two centuries, represents a valuable example of his production, rich in details and great charm. It represents an episode narrated by Pliny the Elder in his work Naturalis Historia (Book xxxv, 85-87), written in 77 AD, in which it is said that the illustrious painter Apelles, thanks to his enormous artistic skills, became the favorite of Alexander the Great, who called him to execute the portrait of Campaspe, the favorite among his concubines; During the execution of the work, the painter fell madly in love with the young woman who, for this reason, was given to him by the leader, as a form of thanks for his services. The anecdote of Apelles and Campaspe is often cited and illustrated as it shows the great esteem of a sovereign for his court painter, whose artistic ability is highly appreciated and who, therefore, occupies an important position in society. Since the 16th century, this subject has been habitually included among the 'exempla virtutis' within celebratory decorations, since the act of ceding the young Campaspe to Apelles was considered an example of the magnanimity of Alexander the Great and therefore reflected the moral qualities of the client, who, thus compared to the valiant leader, implicitly acquired his qualities; Let us now enter into the detail of the composition, which sees the painter, sitting in front of his easel, observing the beauty of the young woman posing in order to portray her features and, at his side, Alexander in bright red Renaissance clothes, who critically looks at the painting to be completed. The scene is animated by a small Cupid, hidden behind the easel, who is about to shoot his arrow of love towards the painter. In the central part the author has inserted two animals, particular for their allegorical meanings and which recall the two male protagonists of the canvas: a monkey, tied by an iron ball, which embodies carnal instincts and lust, with a dog at its side, allusive instead to loyalty and deep friendship. As a frame to the scene, one can only be struck by the setting of the great artist's workshop, rich in details such as classical sculptures, numerous paintings that are already completed and the glimpse of still life with precious objects near the young woman lying down. The peculiarity of this type of work, typical of the ancient Flemish tradition, is precisely the precision and richness of details with which the painter enriches his settings, intended for wealthy clients. In such compositions emerges the taste for depicting opulent environments, which alluded to the social superiority but above all to the culture and passion for the art of the wealthy patrons. The painting is in excellent condition, is accompanied by an antique gilded frame.   The painting is sold with a certificate of authenticity and a descriptive iconographic sheet. We take care of and organize the transport of the purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers. Contact us for any information, we will be happy to answer you. Follow us also on : https://www.instagram.com/galleriacastelbarco/?hl=it https://www.facebook.com/galleriacastelbarco/