12 - JAN PAUWEL GILLEMANS II, “the Younger” (Antwerp, 1651–1704)

JAN PAUWEL GILLEMANS II, “the Younger” (Antwerp, 1651–1704) “Pair of Still Lifes.” Oil on canvas (x2). Relined (x2). Measurements: 38 x 28.5 cm (x2); 56.5 x 45.5 cm (frame, x2). The presentation as a pair and the compelling compositional dialogue between the two paintings are the main strengths of this set of still lifes by Jan Pauwel Gillemans II, a representative of the Flemish still-life tradition of the last third of the 17th century. The two compositions feature an abundant selection of fruits—bunches of white grapes, peaches, apricots, citrus fruits, and cherries—arranged in visually rich groupings against dark backgrounds that accentuate their volume and luminosity. Particularly noteworthy is the treatment of the various natural textures, from the velvety skin of the peaches to the translucency of the grapes and the texture of the leaves. This attention to tactile and luminous effects is part of the tradition of Flemish still life developed from the models of Jan Davidsz. de Heem. Within this context, a comparison with the still lifes by the Gillemans family preserved in public collections is particularly interesting. The Still Life with Fruits and Vegetables at the Museum voor Schone Kunsten in Ghent, cataloged under the name of Jan Pauwel Gillemans I, displays a similar focus on the variety of fruits, chromatic harmony, and their detailed depiction against a dark background. Also noteworthy are the fruit compositions housed in the Galleria Palatina of the Palazzo Pitti in Florence, included in the catalogs of Gillemans II, due to their concentration of natural elements and their decorative character. A Flemish painter specializing in still lifes of fruit and flowers, he was the son and pupil of Jan Pauwel Gillemans I and completed his training in Antwerp under Joris van Son, one of the leading still-life painters of his generation. In 1673–1674, he was admitted as a master to the Guild of Saint Luke in Antwerp. He developed a career specializing in still lifes, characterized by decorative compositions, rich colors, and a delicate rendering of natural qualities. He also worked in Middelburg and Amsterdam, where he died.