Christoph Jacobsz. van der Lamen (Brussels circa 1606–1651 Antwerp)

An elegant party dining in the open air, oil on panel, 58.7 x 84.3 cm, framed

Christoffel van der Lamen specialised in the depiction of courtly groups. He received his training from his father and in the atelier of Frans Francken II, to whom he shows himself to be indebted in his compositions. In 1636/37, the painter registered with his apprentice, Hieronymus Janssens with the Antwerp St. Luca Guild. In the year of his death, 1651 a payment was made in respect of death duties to the St. Lucas Guild. Aside from the influence of Frans Francken II, the gardens of love by Peter Paul Rubens inspired the artist. His courtly companies are mostly grouped in a half-circle around a richly appointed banqueting table. In general, his compositions were finalised by the addition of a figure with his back to the viewer, which may almost be seen as the artist’s signature. This painting is a good example of the mature painterly style of van der Lamen.