As the curtain gently falls on the much-acclaimed “From Raphael to Van Gogh: Treasures of the National Gallery” exhibition at the Chimei Museum, the art world eagerly anticipates the unveiling of a new treasure trove. “Masterstrokes: Journey into the Dutch Golden Age of Painting” is set to make its grand entrance on October 26th, showcasing nearly 60 masterpieces from the museum’s collection. This exhibition is a confluence of scientific examination and art historical research, offering an immersive exploration into the Dutch Golden Age—a period that stands unparalleled in the annals of art history.
The Epoch of Opulence and Artistic Mastery
The Chimei Museum proudly presents for the first time “The World Pays Homage to Apollo” by Hans Jordaens III, a piece that exemplifies the prosperity of the Dutch era. This exhibition promises to transport viewers back to a time when the Netherlands—comprising present-day Belgium, Holland, Luxembourg, and parts of northern France—was not a single nation but a hub of flourishing trade and economic prosperity. The rise of the middle class catalyzed a democratization of art collecting, once a pursuit reserved for royalty and nobility. A burgeoning art market gave rise to a symphony of styles and subjects, and this exhibition aims to recreate that golden era, allowing visitors to witness the artistic zenith of the times.
The Landscape of Artistic Growth
The Chimei Museum elucidates that the Netherlands, officially known as Holland, was a cradle for artistic growth. The exhibition delves into the lesser-known ‘craftsmanship of painters,’ revealing the comprehensive training system that evolved with the boom of the 16th-century Dutch painting market. From apprentices to journeymen and masters, the exhibition showcases the division of labor and collaboration that shaped the journey of these artists, culminating in their transformation into revered masters of their craft.
A Panorama of Diverse Themes
One of the defining features of 16th and 17th-century Dutch painting is its thematic diversity. Driven by religious influence and market demand, regional artists broke away from the conventional confines of religious and portrait paintings, propelling genres like still life, genre scenes, and landscapes to the forefront. The Chimei Museum has meticulously curated a collection that demonstrates the breadth and depth of Dutch painting, including 16 pieces making their debut, spanning religious, portrait, genre, still life, and landscape themes.
Demystifying Art with Science
A highlight of the exhibition is the application of scientific analysis to art. Since 2012, the museum has embarked on collaborative research, employing techniques such as microscopic observation, ultraviolet fluorescence, infrared reflectography, transmissive X-ray photography, macro X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, and dendrochronology. These methods uncover the hidden secrets within the paintings, offering insights into the meticulous processes behind the masterpieces.
The Finale of the ‘Tainan 400’ Series
“Masterstrokes: Journey into the Dutch Golden Age of Painting” is organized into four thematic sections: the era, the path to becoming a professional painter, the variety of subjects, and the research challenges encountered. As the culminating exhibition of the “Tainan 400” series, the Chimei Museum aims to share these precious works and research findings, inviting the public to a multidimensional experience of art and life in the Netherlands four centuries ago.
