The Peacock in the Garden

The Peacock in the Garden – Mathias Withoos and Rome

Like many of his colleagues, the painter Mathias Withoos joined the Bentvueghels during his stay in Rome around 1648–1653. 

Rome can be seen in his art in the landscapes, which he framed with abundant plant motifs. In his signature still-life paintings, undergrowth teeming with life is combined with elements from a sublime urban landscape. In his oeuvre he repeatedly returned to Roman and Italian influences. 

The Bentvueghels group sprang up among Dutch and Flemish artists in Rome around 1620, and the community continued in existence for a century, until 1720. They were boisterous revellers who spent time in close-knit togetherness in their new city. 

But being in Rome was about more than just carousing. They took art making and artistic development seriously. The members of the Bentvueghels were especially keen on drawing and painting in the open air. The artists wanted to learn from the Italian masters, and also sought out new views in the city. 

The group included, among others, Caspar van Wittel (1653–1736), Jan Both (1618–1652) and Cornelis van Poelenburgh (1594–1667), whose works are in this exhibition. 

 

Sinebrychoff Art Museum, 1st floor

24.9.2026-10.1.2027

Tue, Thu, Fri 11.00-18.00

Wed 10.00-20.00

Sat-Sun 10.00-17.00

Admission fee 0-21€