Portret van Jan van Huysum 1702 - 1732

Arnoud van Halen created this engraving of Jan van Huysum, featuring symbols of artistic fame and natural abundance. Consider the fruits and flowers at the base, mirroring the still life on the easel in the background. These motifs are not merely decorative, they are emblematic of Huysum's skill in capturing nature's beauty. Such imagery echoes back to classical depictions of Pomona, the goddess of fruitful abundance, who is also often portrayed with overflowing baskets of fruit. Yet, the symbolism takes on a life of its own through time. The cornucopia, initially a sign of prosperity and divine grace, reappears throughout Renaissance and Baroque art. Over time, the symbol’s significance shifts to represent not just material wealth but also artistic and intellectual fertility. The continuous reinvention and adaptation of this symbol is a testament to the enduring power of images to express complex human desires and aspirations. The deep-seated emotional resonance connected to prosperity allows it to resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings across history.