Van Heemsk Collection

The Rich Man on His Deathbed, from The Parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man, plate 2, 1551

The Imperial Troops Bringing Civilization to the Indians, from The Victories of Emperor Charles, plate 6, 1555

The World Perishing Together with Knowledge and Love, from The Unrestrained World, plate 4, 1550

The Triumph of Pride, from The Cycle of the Vicissitudes of Human Affairs, plate 3, 1564

The Triumph of Envy, from The Cycle of the Vicissitudes of Human Affairs, plate 4, 1564

The Triumph of Peace, from The Cycle of the Vicissitudes of Human Affairs, plate 8, 1564

The Triumph of Want, from The Cycle of the Vicissitudes of Human Affairs, plate 6, 1564

The World Disposing of Justice, from The Unrestrained World, plate 1, 1550

Foolish Knowledge and Foolish Love Trying to Restrain the World, from The Unrestrained World, plate 2, 1550

The Triumph of Humility, from The Cycle of the Vicissitudes of Human Affairs, plate 7, 1564

Jonadab Counselling Amnon, from The Story of Tamar and Amnon, plate 1, 1559. 1559
Jonadab Counselling Amnon, from The Story of Tamar and Amnon, plate 1, 1559

Man Born to Toil, from The Reward of Labour and Diligence, plate 1, 1572. 1572
Man Born to Toil, from The Reward of Labour and Diligence, plate 1, 1572

The Adoration of the Shepherds; verso: Sketches, ca. 1532-37

Surrender of the Elector of Saxony, Italian, Milan, ca. 1560-70. Creator: Unknown
Surrender of the Elector of Saxony, Italian, Milan, ca. 1560-70

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"Van Heemsk: A Master of Symbolism and Social Commentary" Step into the world of van Heemsk, a renowned artist whose works captivate viewers with their intricate details and profound messages. One such masterpiece is "The Rich Man on His Deathbed, " from The Parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man (plate 2, 1551). Through this painting, van Heemsk reminds us of the fleeting nature of wealth and material possessions. In "The Imperial Troops Bringing Civilization to the Indians, " he explores themes of colonization and cultural assimilation. Van Heemsk's brushstrokes depict both power dynamics and the loss of indigenous traditions in a thought-provoking manner. "The World Perishing Together with Knowledge and Love" (from The Unrestrained World) showcases his ability to intertwine philosophy with art. This piece serves as a cautionary tale about society's neglect for wisdom and compassion, urging us to preserve these essential values. Continuing his exploration of human emotions, van Heemsk presents "The Triumphs. " In plate 3 (1564), he portrays Pride triumphing over humility while plate 4 depicts Envy's victory over contentment. These allegorical representations remind us to remain humble in success while guarding against jealousy that can poison our souls. Contrasting these negative aspects are plates like number 8 - "The Triumph of Peace. " Here, van Heemsk celebrates harmony among nations as an ideal worth striving for amidst turbulent times. Furthermore, in plate 6 - "The Triumph of Want, " he sheds light on societal disparities by highlighting the consequences when greed prevails over empathy. This work challenges viewers to reflect upon their own role in creating a more equitable world. In another series titled The Unrestrained World (plate 1, 1550), we witness "The World Disposing Justice. " Van Heemsk questions whether justice truly prevails in a world driven by self-interest and corruption.