Lucas van Uden (Antwerp 1595-1672). Two animated landscapes

Oil on copper
One signed lower right Lucas van Uden
Housed in 18th century frames

In the first artwork, the scene unfolds as peasants walk through a wooded landscape. A small, rustic hut peeks from the on the left. The earthy tones of vibrant browns, deep blues, and lush greens harmonize, evoking the serene ambiance of the countryside. A herdsman tends to his sheep, adding a touch of animated life against the serene backdrop.
The second painting portrays a different facet of countryside existence. Two figures take center stage: one adorned with a majestic falcon perched gracefully on their hand, and the other gesturing purposefully, perhaps indicating the way forward. The landscape is less densely populated with trees, allowing glimpses of a winding river or creek to meander through the scene. In the distance, another herdsman guides a flock of sheep.
Lucas van Uden was a Flemish landscape painter. His technique with its attention to detail, particularly in his smaller works, and his search for decorative elements in the larger paintings place him in the same tradition as Jan Brueghel the Elder and Joos de Momper.
general characteristics of his work are a tonally-green recessive view punctuated by slender trees and populated by incidental pastoral and peasant figures.