Attributed to Frans Francken II and Joos de Momper II

Attributed to FRANS FRANCKEN II (Antwerp, 1581–1642) and JOOS DE MOMPER II (Antwerp, 1564–1635).
“Pan and Syrinx” and “Apollo and Daphne.” Pair of paintings, 17th century.
Oil on copper.
One of the frames retains a plaque bearing the names of both artists and the inscription “Apollon et Daphne.”
In good overall condition, consistent with their age. The reverse sides show deterioration in the protective materials.
Measurements: 22 x 23.5 cm; 28.5 x 30.5 cm (with frame), each.

This pair of paintings belongs to the tradition of cabinet-sized mythological scenes developed in Antwerp during the first third of the 17th century. Collaborations between Frans Francken II and Joos de Momper II were common in this field, with the former painting the figures and the latter the landscapes. Both compositions depict episodes from Ovid’s *Metamorphoses*, focusing on the amorous pursuit and transformation of nymphs.

The first scene depicts Pan pursuing the nymph Syringa beside a stream, surrounded by reed beds that foreshadow her transformation into reeds. The second shows Apollo, recognizable by his lyre, pursuing Daphne through a wooded landscape, before her metamorphosis into a laurel tree. Both compositions stand out for the dynamism of the figures, their expressive gestures, and their garments billowing in the wind. The meticulous brushwork and atmospheric depth reflect the characteristic features of small-format Flemish painting.

This combination of mythology and landscape corresponds to a genre particularly prized in Flemish art collections. Notable examples include “Neptune and Amphitrite,” an oil on copper by Francken II, and “Landscape,” a collaborative work by Joos de Momper II and Jan Brueghel the Elder, both housed in the Prado Museum and representative of the artistic practices developed in Antwerp.

Frans Francken II was one of the leading figures in Flemish cabinet painting. Trained in the family workshop, he joined the Guild of Saint Luke in Antwerp in 1605 and distinguished himself for his religious, mythological, and allegorical compositions, as well as for his depictions of collectors’ galleries. Joos de Momper II, who initially trained with his father, Bartolomeus de Momper, was one of the most prominent landscape painters of his generation. His compositions are characterized by expansive perspectives, a succession of chromatic planes, and the integration of small narrative figures. Works by both artists are on view at the Museo Nacional del Prado in Madrid.