Object Record
Images
Metadata
Title |
Scholar Interrupted at His Writing (An Alchemist in his Laboratory) |
Object Name |
Painting |
Object ID |
FA 2000.003.012 |
Description |
In this variation of a painting by Gerard Dou, a scholarly alchemist, wearing a fur-lined robe, gazes with directness at the viewer as he composes his note. Holding a small quill pen with an open text before him, the alchemist may be engaged in copying, editing, or translation. Small earthenware vessels rest on the shelf behind him, and in the foreground sit a globe and skull. The latter object acts as a "vanitas" or vanity symbol, reminding the viewer of the brevity of life and the inevitable passage of time. |
Artist |
Dou, Gerrit, Follower of |
Dimensions |
H-17.717 W-14.173 inches |
Material |
Oil Paint, Canvas |
Medium |
Painting |
Collection |
Eddleman Collection |
Search Terms |
Alchemy Painting Portraits Laboratories Alchemists Dou, Gerrit |
Provenance |
(sale, Christie's, South Kensington, 25 October 1990, lot no. 63, to Eddleman for Spectrum). [1] Spectrum Laboratories, Rancho Dominguez, CA, acquired by Roy Eddleman, 1990-2000. The Chemical Heritage Foundation, 2000 (from Eddleman/Spectrum). Show notes [1] The sale date is inscribed on the verso of the panel: "63 27/10/90." |