Head of an Apostle
Date unknown
Medium
Oil on panel
Dimensions
45 × 36.5 cm (17 11/16 × 14 3/8 in.)
Classification
painting
Department
Painting and Sculpture of Europe
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
29403
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Art Institute of Chicago's collection of European paintings, *Head of an Apostle* a compelling oil-on-panel study attributed to a follower of Jacobordaens, the eminent Flemish Baroque master (159–1678). Jordaens, a contemporary and rival to Peter Paul Rubens, was renowned for his robust figures, dramatic compositions, and vivid depictions of religious and mythological themes. This intimate portrait—measuring just 45 × 36.5 cm—likely served as a preparatory sketch or standalone devotional piece, capturing the solemn gaze and textured features of an unnamed apostle during the vibr...