Jan van der Heyden’s Room Corner with Curiosities is full of global influences. First, the objects depicted in the painting come from across the world. It contains an American armadillo, Chinese silk and porcelain, and Japanese weapons, just to name a few. This demonstrates the imperialism practiced by the Dutch and other European nations. There is a careful and intentional influence on materials and textures, creating a dynamic canvas. The theme of globalization continues in the globes and atlas presented in the work. These emphasize the Dutch’s interest in exerting their power across oceans. Their new understanding and ability to semi-accurately produce a map of the world strengthens this perspective.
The painting also brings itself back to Italy, the birthplace of the Baroque Movement. With the open bible in the foreground, we are reminded of the pivotal role Christianity and the Church played in advancing European ideals and practices. The religion was used globally to convert native communities and standardize the movement. Another ode to Italy occurs in the painting in the background. It uses rich colors, movement, and religious imagery to remind viewers of the time period. The techniques in the small painting are also utilized in the larger work as a whole. Van der Heyden creates visual depth through the deep red hues and stark shadows, resulting in high levels of contrast and dramatics. The painting’s physical attributes combined with the objects and themes it depicts highlight the overall impression of the Global Baroque.
