Allegory of Peace 1700 - 1725

This is an oil on canvas painting called ‘Allegory of Peace’ by the artist B. van Kessel. Classical allegories were a popular means of expressing political ideas in the early modern period, particularly in the Dutch Republic where this painting was likely made. Here we see Mars, the God of War, surrendering to Peace. The figures surrounding Mars and Peace represent concepts like prosperity and justice. Such images often celebrated the signing of a peace treaty and they are a window onto the values of a mercantile society that relied on trade routes protected by naval power. We can see such paintings as forms of propaganda; expressions of a desire for stability and a celebration of the institutions of the state. By studying the symbolism in such works, alongside other period sources such as political pamphlets and popular songs, we can gain a better understanding of the relationship between art and politics in this period. Art history is detective work, and it allows us to see the past through fresh eyes.