Stolen painting by Jacob Jordaens found in France, now back in Belgium
A painting by Flemish Baroque master Jacob Jordaens has been rediscovered in the south of France at the estate of a deceased antique dealer. The artwork, The Return of the Holy Family from Egypt, was confirmed as a significant find by the Dutch art gallery Art Dumay and Belgian art historian Brecht Vanoppen, according to Gazet Van Antwerpen.
The painting depicts Joseph, Mary and Jesus on their journey back to Israel. There are two other versions of this work: one held by the Berlin State Museum and another by the Rhode Island School of Design Museum in the US. This recovered piece is the third version.
"In Jordaens' time, it was not unusual for the studios of famous painters to produce multiple versions of a composition, either due to popularity or at the request of a customer," said Vanoppen.
The artwork was stolen from an Antwerp-Jewish family during World War II. "That family has now got the work back in their hands," said Vanoppen.
The painting was first appraised by Vanoppen, an expert affiliated with the Rubenianum, a non-profit organisation focused on the works of Rubens and his contemporaries. Vanoppen is regarded as an authority on Jordaens’ oeuvre.
A second appraisal may follow depending on the family’s plans for the painting. "A second inspection should provide more information about the authenticity and quality of the painting," Vanoppen said.
#FlandersNewsService | Flight of the Holy Family to Egypt by Jacob Jordaens © PHOTO BRIDGEMAN
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