Circle of Jan Massys (Antwerp c. 1509-before 1575)

The subject recalls the Biblical text of Psalm 85, verse 10: 'Righteousness and peace have kissed each other.' It was popular among artists of the 16th century, particularly during the early decades of the Dutch Revolt of the Seven Provinces against the Spanish supremacy. This panel is particularly close in composition to a picture now in a private collection, Antwerp (sale; American Art Association, New York, 16 February 1911, lot 118). Other variants of the subject include a painting by Marten de Vos, now in the Hermitage, Saint Petersburg (inv. no. ??7724) and another by Jacob de Backer (Christie's, New York, 27 January 2000, lot 54).