Jacob Jordaens (1593–1678), Allegory of Fertility, ca. 1623-1625, Oil on canvas,180 x 241cm, Musées royaux des Beaux-Arts, Brussels
Jacob Jordaens’ artistic legacy is an intriguing example of an artist whose achievements are often overshadowed by the legacies of his contemporaries, particularly Rubens. Jordaens benefited significantly from Rubens’ international commissions, which provided work for many great Flemish artists. However, it is difficult to call him a direct follower of Rubens despite the substantial influence of Rubens’ polymath compositions. Jordaens evolved his style throughout his career, and even at the height of his maturity, he remained largely indifferent to the intellectual and courtly aspirations evident in the works of Rubens and van Dyck. His grounded and realistic approach, avoiding excessive idealisation in his dynamic mythological compositions, marks his unique artistic path. His figures are treated distinctively, appearing more down-to-earth and less idealised.
For centuries, many of Jordaens’ works were attributed to Rubens’ studio, and some paintings still remain in attribution limbo, reflecting the complexity and individuality of his oeuvre. Even in his religious paintings, Jordaens maintained his distinctive approach, possibly influenced by his personal journey, including his conversion to Calvinism, which led to a more restrained treatment of subjects.
Allegory of Fertility exemplifies Jordaens’ mature mastery through its anatomical precision. Jordaens did not strive to emulate Rubens’ realistic skin tones or idealise his figures.
Based on a popular iconographic theme, the painting features mythological elements such as the cornucopia and grapes, symbolising fertility and abundance. This Brussels version differs from the known London version in the Wallace Collection by depicting the cornucopia-bearing woman only from the back. The enigmatic scene, with its mix of humans, satyrs, and mythological elements, underscores Jordaens’ ability to merge classical themes with his distinctive artistic vision.