Child's head 1620

Jacob Jordaens created this oil painting on canvas of a child's head, sometime in the 17th century. Jordaens prepared his canvas meticulously, layering it with gesso to create a smooth, light-reflecting surface. The visible brushstrokes are quite evident, and are a testament to Jordaens' mastery of the oil paint medium. Notice how he has exploited the fluidity of the oil paint, layering warm tones and translucent glazes to give depth and luminosity to the child's skin. The softness of the child's face contrasts with the visible texture of the paint. The artist's skill in blending and scumbling the paint creates a sense of movement, bringing the child to life. The painting process invites us to consider the level of skill, labor and time involved in the production of such a portrait. It is also worth noting that this kind of oil painting was made possible through the exploitation of resources and labor, especially in the extraction of pigments and the production of linen for the canvas. So when we look at this image, we might think about the broader economic and social conditions that enable its creation.