Caritas - Adriaen van Stalbemt (1580-1662)

Oil on copper
Comes with a certificate by dr. Klaus Ertz, June 2019



THE ARTWORK

This painting presents an engaging and almost playful interpretation of the allegorical theme of Caritas—the embodiment of charity or motherly love. In this scene, a young woman sits in a semi-open architectural space, surrounded by five small children, each absorbed in various activities. The woman, draped in soft fabric and seated near a table, is gently attempting to dress a child, while others around her engage in childlike play. The composition skillfully balances a serene setting with lively movement. To the left, two children tussle over a pinwheel, emphasizing the spontaneous and often chaotic nature of youth.
The artist includes classical elements, such as columns and a green velum draped overhead, which frame the scene and add a sense of grandeur to an otherwise intimate moment. In the background, a rural landscape is visible, with trees and rustic buildings, further grounding the setting in everyday reality. The contrast between the idealized classical architecture and the spirited children contributes to a sense of both reverence and relatability in the painting.
This work offers a subtle critique of the traditional representation of Caritas. In contrast to earlier depictions that idealized a serene, maternal figure with children clinging to her lovingly, van Stalbemt portrays the woman as visibly engaged and perhaps slightly overwhelmed by the children’s liveliness. This interpretation suggests a shift from purely allegorical representations to a more realistic depiction, highlighting the complexities and demands of caregiving rather than an idealized vision of motherhood.


THE ARTIST

Adriaen van Stalbemt (1580–1662) was a notable Flemish painter and printmaker celebrated for his landscapes and allegorical scenes, often infused with religious or mythological themes. Known for his versatility, van Stalbemt was frequently commissioned to add figures to compositions by other artists, showcasing his skill in portraying human forms. His work is eclectic, drawing influence from esteemed artists such as Jan Brueghel the Elder, Jan Brueghel the Younger, and Hendrick van Balen. The lush landscapes in his paintings often exhibit the stylistic elements of Paul Bril and Gillis van Coninxloo, combining detailed foregrounds with expansive, atmospheric backgrounds.
Van Stalbemt's style reflects the changing attitudes of his era, bridging traditional allegorical motifs with emerging trends toward realism and individual expression. This nuanced approach allowed him to reinterpret conventional subjects like Caritas in fresh ways, as seen in this piece, where he blends allegorical content with a candid glimpse into the daily dynamics of childrearing. His legacy as an artist lies in this ability to merge the symbolic with the real, crafting works that resonate on both a visual and emotional level.