Rubens, Pedro Pablo; Brueghel el Viejo, Jan – El Olfato Part 4 Prado Museum

The composition presents a lush and abundant garden scene, rendered with meticulous detail characteristic of Northern Renaissance artistry. The eye is immediately drawn to the profusion of flora – roses, tulips, irises, and other blossoms – which dominate the foreground and spill across the canvas in an almost overwhelming display of natural growth. These plants are not merely decorative; their variety and density suggest a deliberate orchestration of nature’s bounty.
A central figure, a nude woman reclining on a stone ledge, commands attention. She is presented with a serene expression as she leans towards a small child who offers her a fruit. The interaction between the two figures suggests themes of nurture, innocence, and perhaps the transmission of knowledge or experience. The woman’s pose, relaxed yet dignified, evokes classical ideals of beauty while simultaneously grounding the scene in earthly sensuality.
Beyond this central grouping, the garden extends into a receding perspective. A formal architectural structure – a building with arched windows and manicured hedges – is visible in the middle ground, hinting at human intervention within the natural landscape. A body of water, partially obscured by foliage, adds depth to the scene and contributes to the overall sense of tranquility.
Scattered throughout the garden are various objects: a basket overflowing with produce, scattered shells, a small fountain, and what appears to be a hunting dog or hound sniffing at the ground. These elements introduce an element of narrative ambiguity. The presence of the dog suggests a connection to the hunt, potentially alluding to themes of desire, pursuit, or even temptation. The abundance of food and produce could symbolize prosperity and indulgence, while the scattered shells might evoke associations with travel, discovery, or the sea.
The lighting is soft and diffused, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The artist’s skillful use of chiaroscuro enhances the three-dimensionality of the figures and plants, lending them a tangible presence. The overall effect is one of opulent abundance, sensual pleasure, and a subtle interplay between human agency and natural forces. The painting seems to explore the relationship between sensory experience – particularly smell, suggested by the title’s implied reference – and the broader themes of life, knowledge, and indulgence.