Studio of Frans Francken II (1581 1642)Banquet scene: Lazarus and the rich manOil on parqueted panel. Frans Francken II painted this scene many times in different formats. "Lazarus and the rich man" was a very popular theme in the 17th century, symbolising compassion and charity for the poor. This work is very similar to the one found at the Ekaterinburg Museum of Fine Arts in Russia, and to the one dated 1605 at the Brotmuseum in Ulm, Germany. (See U. Haerting: Frans Francken II, 1989, cat. no. 164-167). 74.5 x 104.5 cm In a moulded giltwood frame. Panel cracked lengthwise, retouched.