Routes of the Scientists' Club

Picturesque mood

The first trip of the Scientists' Club this year was to the New Jerusalem Museum for the exhibition of Flemish painting of the 17th century "Under the Sign of Rubens".

The central figure of the exhibition is the great master Peter Paul Rubens that just like in his time, united talented painters around him. His legacy is huge, his talents are diverse, his personality is attractive, his canvases are priceless both in artistic and historical sense. Two paintings are exhibited for the first time: "The Coronation of Roxana by Alexander the Great" and "The French King Henry IV uses a happy opportunity to make peace." In addition, the portraits by Anthony van Dyck, Otto van Ven and Cornelis de Vos, the religious scenes by Jacob Jordaens, the still-life paintings by Frans Snyders, the landscapes by Jan Wildens, as well as rare art works by lesser-known artists such as the female artist Joanna Vergauwen are presented at the exhibition.

The guide spoke about the historical era during the period of which Flemish painting had developed, about the traditions of the art school, the relationship of masters, their students and apprentices, about how the art market of Flanders had been developed in the 17th century. Paintings were created collectively, sometimes the well-known artist only put the finishing touches, reviving the canvas and signed up. At that time, it was customary to adhere to the chosen genre (portrait, still life or landscape), write out the details with special care, and to put a special meaning, morality into the work, using artistic techniques, colors and symbols. Relations with customers were woven into the world of painters that willingly helped each other a lot, such as, only the members of the Guild of St. Luke, an association of sculptors, artists and printers, could sell paintings.

Paintings by Flemish painters were brought to Russia under Peter the Great and under Catherine II, the Hermitage became the owner of one of the richest collections in the world.

The exhibition "Under the sign of Rubens" brought together the best examples of Flemish painting of the 17th century, located in Russia. The exposition consisted of 67 paintings provided by museums, private collectors and galleries. The design of the exhibition allows, even without a guide, to learn about the events of that era, the relationship of artists, creative associations and trends that influenced the flowering of this art. The background of the exhibition is dark gray and bright colors, glossy lacquer and carved picture frames look great on it.

After the exhibition, the JINR staff members had the opportunity to visit the Resurrection New Jerusalem Monastery. On this day, the weather was in harmony with the elevated mood - the sun was shining through the light clouds, the azure sky and snow caps were echoing the interior white and blue decoration of the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ. It was excellent spiritual nourishment before Christmas and before the new working period!
 

Galina MYALKOVSKAYA,
photo by Igor LAPENKO