Nicolaes van Helt Stockade (1614 – 1669)
This is a painting by Nicolaes van Helt Stockade (1614 – 1669). In the present art market Van Helt Stockade is not  specifically considered an appealing name. Nevertheless van Helt was a well known painter in his own time who received highly esteemed commissions. Only 30 paintings can be attributed to this painter. In recent years 4 previously unkown works have appeared on the art market.

We have been asked to provide additional information on both the artist, his style as well as iconographic issues relating to Il Contento. This painting was previously known as A Pagan Sacrifice. Our research has provided an interesting insight in Van Helt Stockade’s live and shed new light on the origin of the painting. A painting by the German artist Adam Elsheimer (1578-1610) has most probably served as van Helt's prime source for the depiction of this very rare subject.

An attractive article on this topic, a summary of our research project, is available. Please feel free to contact us, we will be happy to send you a copy.