Original scientific paper
The Kermis Iconography of David Teniers the Younger
Iva Pasini
; Strossmayerova galerija HAZU
Abstract
Taking as a starting point the painting of the Kermis (164?) by David Teniers the Younger in the Strossmayer Gallery in Zagreb, and comparing it to a series of other versions of the same theme by the same artist, the author has identified specific forms of the Kermis theme, and reasons for frequent appearance of the topic. The iconographic analysis is based on a study of genre motifs coterminous with a moral content of emblems, and with the help of the motto and textual accompaniment it is possible to explain the texture of meaning. Unveiling and condemnation of opiates, of immoderate eating and drinking is found in motifs of smoking, traditional naturalist motifs, and the motif of the swine. Recognition of transience and of vanity of earthly goods is expressed by emptying a bucket or a pipe. Poses and facial features indicate the lowly and lewd behavior. Such interpretations are reinforced by cotemporary literature.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
151885
URI
Publication date:
15.12.2004.
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