Hendrick van Balen the Elder and Follower of Jan Brueghel the Elder – Pan pursuing Syrinx Part 3 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a scene of pursuit within a densely vegetated landscape. A male figure, characterized by his hirsute features and partially exposed torso, advances toward a female figure who is actively evading him. The vegetation – a profusion of reeds, grasses, and flowering plants – dominates the foreground, obscuring much of the ground and creating a sense of enclosure.
The male’s posture conveys an urgency and determination; his hand reaches out towards the fleeing woman, while his body leans forward in the chase. The female figure displays a clear expression of distress and resistance. Her arm is raised defensively, her gaze directed upwards as if appealing to some unseen power or seeking escape. A pink drape partially conceals her form, adding a layer of vulnerability to her posture.
The background reveals a glimpse of water – likely a lake or pond – and distant trees under a clear sky. This spatial recession provides depth and suggests the possibility of an eventual refuge for the pursued figure. The color palette is dominated by earthy greens and browns, punctuated by the pink of the drape and the vibrant yellows of the irises that grow amongst the reeds.
Subtleties within the scene suggest a narrative steeped in mythology. The male’s appearance – a combination of human and animalistic traits – hints at his identity as a woodland deity or satyr. The females desperate flight, coupled with her apparent beauty, implies she is being pursued by an unwanted suitor. This dynamic evokes themes of desire, rejection, and the struggle for freedom.
The artist’s meticulous rendering of foliage creates a sense of realism while simultaneously contributing to the overall atmosphere of mystery and tension. The interplay between light and shadow further enhances the dramatic effect, highlighting the figures expressions and emphasizing their physical interaction within this natural setting.