Mijtens, Daniël (II) – Allegoriserende portretgroep van de kinderen van Diederic Pietersz van Leyden (van Leeuwen), burgemeester van Leiden, en Alida Paets, 1679 Rijksmuseum: part 4

The composition presents a group portrait set within a carefully constructed allegorical landscape. Here we observe a gathering of children and young adults arranged across a shallow stage-like space, framed by dense foliage and a classical architectural element. The scene is bathed in an uneven light, creating dramatic contrasts between illuminated figures and areas shrouded in shadow.
The central focus rests upon two seated individuals; a boy engrossed in reading from a large volume, and a young woman beside him, dressed in flowing robes. His posture suggests diligence and intellectual pursuit, while her relaxed pose implies contemplation or perhaps patronage of his studies. The arrangement subtly reinforces the importance of education within this familial context.
Flanking these central figures are several other individuals, each seemingly embodying distinct virtues or qualities. One figure, positioned to the left, holds a laurel branch, a traditional symbol of victory and achievement. Another, slightly further back, appears adorned with attributes suggestive of military prowess – a helmet and what might be a shield. The inclusion of these symbolic elements elevates the portrait beyond a simple depiction of likenesses; it functions as an allegorical representation of familial values and aspirations.
The presence of several young women, each in elaborate costumes, contributes to this sense of layered meaning. Their attire suggests not merely personal adornment but also allusions to classical mythology or personifications of virtues like prudence, justice, or beauty. The arrangement of these figures – some standing, some seated, some leaning – creates a dynamic interplay that prevents the composition from feeling static.
In the upper right corner, an angel appears, seemingly bestowing blessings upon the group below. This celestial presence reinforces the notion of divine favor and suggests a sense of hope for the future prosperity of this family. The scattered walnuts at the base of the scene are likely symbolic of abundance and fertility, further emphasizing the familial context.
The artist’s use of rich colors – particularly the deep greens of the foliage, the vibrant reds of the drapery, and the golden hues illuminating certain figures – contributes to a sense of grandeur and opulence. The overall effect is one of carefully orchestrated symbolism designed to celebrate the lineage and virtues of this prominent family.