Hendrick Van Balen II (attr.) - Venus and Ceres, allegory of autumn

Large and captivating painting, Venus and Ceres an allegory of autumn, Hendrick van Balen the Younger (attr.) , 1623 – 1661

This large and special painting depicts the goddesses Ceres and Venus seated in a landscape, surrounded by the rich and opulent harvest. Putti surround the goddesses and help to collect the spoils of the season, it is an allegory of abundance and autumn.

Hendrick van Balen II (1623–1661) was a notable Flemish Baroque painter, recognized for continuing the artistic legacy of his father, Hendrick van Balen the Elder, who had trained Anthony van Dyck. Though his career was shorter, his refined figures, mythological themes, and religious scenes were highly regarded during his time. His collaborations with other painters on complex compositions, where he specialized in figure painting, further established his reputation in Antwerp’s art scene.

Museums with works by Hendrick van Balen II include; Royal Museum of Fine Arts, Antwerp / The Louvre, Paris / Museo del Prado, Madrid

Another, comparable and very similar painting depicting an Allegory of Fertility (oil on canvas measuring 167. 5 by 215 cms) was offered in Germany in 2023 for an estimate of 80 000 to 160 000 euro, with an attribution to Hendrick Van Balen II with Jan Brueghel II expertised by the late Dr. Ertz.

Oil on canvas, 117 x 171 cm and with the custom-made contemporary frame (gift to the buyer) ca. 137 by 191cms.

Accompanied by an expert‘s report by Philippine Motais de Narbonne, who identifies Hendrick van Balen as the creator of the present painting, in copy. The painting is captivating and ready to hang, with some inpainting and a repair to the putto in the lower left.

Please note that given the size we would like to recommend a transport by courier, we know some companies with whom we work regularly.