The Sermon on the Mount 1598

"The Sermon on the Mount," was painted by Jan Brueghel the Younger some time in the 17th century with oil on panel. In this painting, the handling of the oil paint— the inherent qualities of its substance, texture, weight, color and form — is crucial to understanding the work. Each stroke contributes to the crowded scene, built up with careful attention to the rendering of fabric, skin, and foliage. This detailed layering mirrors the social complexity of the scene, where a multitude gathers to hear wisdom. Brueghel's labor-intensive technique emphasizes the amount of work involved in the production of the painting, subtly mirroring the labor, faith and toil of the masses depicted. These techniques draw the viewer into a world where the act of making— both art and life— is a testament to dedication and belief. By focusing on the material and the making, we can understand the full meaning of the artwork, transcending traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.