Saints, Sinners, and Fools at the Peabody Essex Museum – a 5 star Museum!
Saints, Sinners, and Fools at the Peabody Essex Museum
Salem, Massachusetts, is most famously associated with its witches, but it is also home to one of New England’s greatest cultural treasures: the Peabody Essex Museum (PEM). Renowned for its remarkable and diverse art collections, PEM frequently showcases dynamic, rotating exhibits. This fall, the museum welcomes a stunning presentation of Flemish masterworks in the exhibit Saints, Sinners, and Fools: 300 Years of Flemish Masterworks.
Flanders, a historic region that includes parts of modern-day Belgium, was a thriving hub of art in the 1600s. While Belgium is often associated with its iconic waffles, its contribution to the art world is far more profound. The Flemish masters, whose works are celebrated in this exhibit, include such luminaries as Anthony van Dyck (no relation to Dick Van Dyke—happy 99th birthday to him!) and Peter Paul Rubens (not to be confused with Pee-wee Herman).
This collection features an array of breathtaking works, offering a captivating exploration of religious, mythological, and everyday themes. The title of the exhibit—Saints, Sinners, and Fools—provides an intriguing framework for appreciating the diversity of Flemish art.
Saints
The “saints” are represented through religious works that reflect the deep spiritual traditions of the era. Among these are magnificent triptychs, which are three-paneled artworks often used in worship. These pieces might depict scenes like the nativity, with the three wise men visiting the manger. These are a perfect way to extoll a traditional Christmas! Triptychs were ingeniously designed with folding panels that allowed them to be concealed or revealed as needed for devotion.
Fools
The “fools” provide some of the exhibit’s most fascinating and whimsical imagery. Court jesters, with their grotesque features or outlandish attire, are immortalized in these works, offering a glimpse into the humor and folly of the time. These depictions remind us that the line between jest and wisdom was often blurred—and that fools and saints might not be so different after all.
Sinners
The “sinners” appear in both sacred and secular contexts. Mythological scenes, such as Diana and her nymphs or Apollo driving his chariot, bring the sensuality and drama of pagan tales to life. The exhibit also delves into the concept of original sin with depictions of the Garden of Eden. Portraits of the nobility, with their sumptuous attire and proud expressions, might also subtly critique the vices of the upper class.
Cabinets of Curiosities
One highlight of the exhibit is the section devoted to Cabinets of Curiosities. These historical collections—filled with rare and exotic objects—were precursors to modern museums. Visitors will marvel at intricately crafted cabinets, which housed items ranging from unusual animal specimens to exquisite lacquered boxes from Japan. The cabinets themselves are as much a part of the artistry as the treasures they hold.
This remarkable exhibit runs until May 4, 2025. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply curious about the rich history of Flemish art, Saints, Sinners, and Fools offers something for everyone. Don’t miss this chance to explore the extraordinary world of Flemish masterworks.
For more information, visit www.pem.org.