This painting from 1784 by Jan Ekels II refers unmistakably to the Dutch tradition of great painters such as Vermeer, de Hooch and Metsu, who lived roughly a century earlier. But unlike the work of many of his contemporaries, this interior piece is not a nostalgic reminiscence of a lost golden era, but an interior scene with a quite personal and ‘modern’ feel.
Jan Ekels II presents his subject, a man sharpening his pen, as sober as possible. It is clear that this man is preparing for serious work. This is shown symbolically by the fact that his board game is hanging on the wall, with its pieces stashed away till later. Also, the concentrated expression on his face reveals the man’s devotion to the task ahead. The view in the mirror allows us spectators to share in this intimate scene. Light plays a special role as well: entering the room through a slit in the curtain, it subtly illuminates the scene sideways. Most highlighted is the paper on the table. Knowing that this work of art was made during the heyday of the Enlightenment, this last element grants this charming painting an interesting philosophical dimension.
Jan Ekels II (1759-1793) can be considered as one of the great talents of the painting scene of the late eighteenth century. He may have inherited his talent from his father, who was an artist as well and who taught him the tricks of the trade. Unfortunately, his untimely death at only 33 put an abrupt end to his promising career and left his name unknown to most.
Comments