This exceptional 17th century oil on canvas painting presents Vertumnus, the Roman god of seasons, masterfully depicted as an elderly woman symbolizing winter's eternal cycle. Attributed to the German Baroque school of Ottmar Elliger the Younger (1666-1735), this rare mythological artwork showcases the sophisticated allegorical painting tradition of Old Master European art.
Recent conservation work revealed intriguing details: a red cape fragment in the bottom right corner suggests this canvas was once part of a larger composition, likely featuring Pomona, goddess of orchards. The popular Vertumnus and Pomona pairing dominated 17th and 18th century European art, representing nature's cyclical renewal.
Vertumnus, meaning "to turn" or "change," originated as an Etruscan fertility deity before Roman adoption. Unlike Priapus, Vertumnus governed complete seasonal transformation: germination, flowering, fruiting, and dormancy. His shape-shifting abilities enabled his legendary courtship of the nymph Pomona. According to Ovid's Metamorphoses, Vertumnus assumed four seasonal forms to win Pomona's love:
- Plowman (Spring)
- Reaper (Summer)
- Wine grower (Autumn)
- Elderly woman (Winter)
This painting captures his final winter transformation, the moment he revealed his true identity and secured Pomona's eternal devotion.
This German Old Master painting demonstrates classical Baroque techniques:
- Chiaroscuro lighting creating dramatic depth
- Rich textile rendering showcasing period mastery
- Expressive characterization revealing winter's wisdom
- Sophisticated allegorical symbolism
This antique oil painting offers both aesthetic pleasure and historical importance and make it a significant addition to any serious collection of 17th century European art.
Medium: Oil on canvas.
Condition: Very good condition, recent cleaning.
Dimensions : 25 ½ x 24 in. / 65 x 51 cm.
Frame: 79 x 64 cm. / 31 x 25 1/4 in. Gilt wood, very good condition.
Origin : France.
