Lot 2049 Dα

Filippo Lauri, born in Rome as son of the Flemish landscape painter Balthasar Lauwers, testifies in this cheerful, brilliantly painted picture to his deep integration into the Italian culture of his time. While the foliage and the layering of the composition still continue the Flemish tradition, the elegant design of the figures and the theme are inspired by ancient mythology from the south. The painting depicts a cheerful scene. It is a so-called Bacchanalia, in other words, an exuberant, joyful festival in honour of the god Bacchus. Pan, the god of the forest and nature, of music and cheerfulness, dances with a seductive companion in front of the statue of Bacchus. Decorated with garlands of flowers, drinking men and laughing putti also pay homage to the stone image of the wine god at his feast, which was celebrated since at least the 2nd century BC on the Aventine every year on 16th and 17th March.
Filippo Lauri had established his own workshop in Rome by around 1640. With his fine small format works, characterised by their vivid colours and elegant lines, he was one of the city's most successful artists. Signed works like this one, dated 1645, are rather rare.