Bidspirit auction | Attributed to JAN VAN DEN

Attributed to JAN VAN DEN HOECKE (Antwerp c. 1611 - 1651) - Rest on the Flight into Egypt (c. 1635) - Oil on canvas. Dimensions: 108.5 x 83 cm (unframed), 139 x 114 cm (framed). This splendid painting, attributed to Jan van den Hoecke, was executed during his Rubenian period and possibly in Rubens's own studio, as suggested by the presence of certain characteristic elements, including the small dog in the lower right corner, whose posture exactly matches that of the animal appearing in Rubens's Susanna and the Elders, also visible in various versions, including the one in the Alte Pinakothek in Munich (inv. no. 317). Van den Hoecke worked with this iconography on several occasions, and this version displays a particularly rich composition, with numerous angels arranged in pairs, each representing a different function, surrounded by carefully crafted decoration featuring a sumptuous red velvet curtain that reinforces the theatricality of the scene. The entire ensemble is further enhanced by a substantial, high-quality antique frame, which adds solemnity and visual reinforcement to the work. Jan van den Hoecke (Antwerp, 1611–1651) was a painter from the Southern Netherlands, a disciple and collaborator of Peter Paul Rubens, whose influence marked much of his work, although he was also influenced by Anton van Dyck. Coming from a family of artists, he participated in important projects such as the Triumphal Entry of Ferdinand of Austria in 1635. He traveled to Italy between 1635 and 1644, where his style evolved toward a more refined classicism influenced by Guido Reni. In Rome, he was a member and regent of the Pontifical Academy of Virtuosi at the Pantheon. Upon his return in 1647, he was appointed court painter to Archduke Leopold Wilhelm of Austria. In addition to his painting, he was also a tapestry designer and engraver. He died in Antwerp or Brussels around 1650–1651. Located in international warehouse.