On-line gallery
- Reference number
- P01804
- Author
- Teniers, David (Flemish)
- Title
- The Alchemist
- Chronology
- 1631-1640
- Technique
- Support
- Measures
- 32 cm x 25 cm
- School
- Theme
- Shown
- Yes
- Entrance
- COLECCION REAL
- Procedence
- Royal Collection
And alchemist, recognizable by his
characteristic cap, fans the fire
in his laboratory. The presence of
books, flasks and other instruments
in the foreground reveal his
pseudo-scientific activity. In the
background, a group of three
figures of a certain social
standing appear to be discussing
the subject from a theoretical
standpoint.
This work is paired with The
Surgical Operation (P1803) and both
offer Tenier's critical view of
these activities halfway between
science and trickery.
Here, Teniers follows the
traditional treatment of this
subject visible in the works of
Pieter Brueghel. As in many of
Teniers' works, the scene is set
indoors. The use of color and
oppressive atmosphere tie this to
the work of his teacher, Adriaen
Brouwer, although Teniers gives
light a greater presence, and the
colors are brighter. The depiction
of objects and utensils, which is
habitual in his work, shows his
skill at rendering reality
meticulously.
This work was documented at
Madrid's Alcázar Palace since at
least 1734.
Location on the map
