Peasants eating Pancakes

Vincent Malo was a Flemish painter known for his genre scenes, religious and mythological subjects, and occasional portraits. Born in Cambrai, Malo trained and worked in Antwerp before moving to Italy, where he became known as Vincenzo Malo. His early works exhibit Mannerist traits, while his mature style aligns more closely with the Baroque movement, influenced by contemporaries such as Rubens and Van Dyck. Malo often collaborated with other artists, adding figures to the landscapes and seascapes of painters like Andries van Eertvelt and Gijsbrecht Leytens. His works are held in various collections, including the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and the Pinacoteca di Brera in Milan. Despite his contributions, Malo remains a relatively obscure figure, with limited documentation on his life and oeuvre.
This painting, depicts a lively scene of rural life, a subject Vincent Malo frequently explored. The composition centers on a group of peasants eating pancakes inside an inn, capturing the camaraderie and leisure of the time. The artist's attention to detail is evident in the varied expressions and postures of the figures, as well as in the depiction of the rustic setting. The use of oil on panel allows for fine detailing and a smooth finish, characteristic of Malo's technique. This work exemplifies the genre scenes popular in the 17th century, reflecting both the social customs and artistic styles of the period.

We are grateful to Dr. Bert Schepers for the attribution
Oil on panel, 20 x 25 cm