The Bean King

細節

Attributed to Mattheus von Helmont (Antwerp 1623-1679 Brussels)
The Bean King
oil on canvas, unframed
23 1/8 x 33½ in. (58.8 x 85.1 cm.)

來源

F. Partridge; Christie's, London, 8 February 1929, lot 58 (44 gns. to Schidloff).

注意事項

No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 17.5% will be added to the buyer's premium which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis This lot is subject to Collection and Storage charges

拍品專文

The feast depicted is that of Epiphany, celebrated either on 6 January - the thirteenth day after Christmas - or on the proceeding evening (Twelfth Night). After returning from church, the company would gather for a large meal, at the start of which one of those present would be chosen as king by casting lots or serving cakes, one which included a bean, the discoverer of which being designated king. The king would then be given a paper crown and organise the members of his court: typically a queen, jester, cook, musician, master of ceremonies, taster and porter.