Flemish Artist, Aeneas Fleeing the Burning of Troy, 17th Century, Oil on Canvas, Framed

This oil painting on canvas, created by an artist from the 17th century flemish school, depicts one of the most significant scenes from greco-roman mythology: aeneas saving his family from the devastating flames of troy. The artwork captures an extraordinary dramatic moment from virgil’s “aeneid,”illustrating the heroic and determined escape of aeneas, carrying his elderly father anchises on his back, along with his wife creusa and son ascanio, from the now-burning city of troy.
despite its small size, the canvas contains a large number of characters, objects, and architectural elements that contribute to the dynamism of the scene, alongside a detailed anatomical representation of the figures and a vibrant color palette.
the mastery of chiaroscuro, the layered yet intense brushstrokes, and the use of contrasts and juxtapositions highlight the anguish and determination of the protagonists. The movements, skin tones, and garments, accentuated by the flickering fire, draw us into a pivotal moment for the characters. The other figures populating the majestic architecture seem doomed to be consumed by the destructive flames.
the depiction of urgency and the representation of a crucial moment is successfully executed. The observer is invited to explore the characters’ emotions, ranging from fear to hope, through their expressive faces and anatomical poses. The warm tones of the red flames in the background spectacularly contrast with the more delicate colors and cooler hues tones of the figures in the foreground, intensifying the overall visual impact of the artwork.
this painting is a wonderful synthesis of dutch baroque painting, a testament to the flourishing golden century of the 1600s. With refined technique and compelling storytelling, this painting enriches any artistic collection and serves as a significant historical monument capable of stimulating lasting conversations and appreciation.
symbolizing human resilience, it evokes the theme of salvation. The figure of anchises embodies nobility and sacrifice, blending classical roots with the flemish artistic context. Aeneas’s flight represents renewal and cultural continuity, themes cherished by 17th-century artists.

in summary, this painting is a marvel of flemish baroque, inviting deep reflections on the human condition and the quest for hope. It exudes a timeless charm, enriching not only your space and collection but also adding aesthetic and cultural value while stimulating valuable artistic and historical conversations.
condition and technical details
the painting is in excellent condition for its age, featuring the original canvas with an interesting and stable craquelé in some areas. The surface is uniform, with bright and saturated colors. It is housed in an elegant carved and gilded wooden frame, decorated with stylized acanthus leaves and deep egg and dart oval carvings.
dimensions:
– **with frame:** h. 50 cm, w. 58 cm, d. 8 cm
**unframed:** h. 34 cm, w. 42 cm