Flemish School XVII: Combat Between Athena And Poseîdon For Attica

17th century oil on canvas of the Flemish School. The style and diversity of the elements represented, are clearly related to the entourage of Jan BRUEGHUEL (1568 - 1625), with elements that are reminiscent of Frans FRANCKEN II (the seashells signature, frequent at home), which n is not surprising since he was a close friend of Jan BRUEGHEL. It could be a joint workshop work. The scene represented on this painting is taken from a legend relating to the foundation of Athens. Indeed, several legends are related to the foundation of Athens. According to one of them, while Athens had just been founded, the Fact (Fate) decided that it would become rich, prosperous and the most powerful city in all Greece. Athena decided to take her into his custody. However, Poseidon also wanted it because it was close to the sea. The two gods therefore opposed. Zeus, unable to decide between them, Athena proposed to let the citizens decide on their guardian. Athena and Poseidon gathered the people of the city on the acropolis and each offered a gift: the one who would be judged the best would win the victory. Poseidon revealed a very rich source of fish, while Athena gave birth to an olive tree. The people of the Attack voted - with a good anticipation because indeed the women participated in the poll - this chooses the gift of Athena, who finally gave his name to the city. After the choice, the citizens promised Poseidon to raise him a temple and that they would make him the offerings due to keep his favor. On this canvas we find the main elements of this democratic struggle: Athena helmeted on the left pointing to the olive tree of his spear, Poseidon offering the aquatic animals miultiples and various (fish, seals, shells, birds and aquatic plants .... The four women on the left evoke the feminine vote that allowed Athena to win the poll .. deep down, in a typical Flemish school landscape, Athens takes shape Beautiful old frame in golden bosi without frame: 88 x 127 cm with frame: 74 x 113 cm