The Brazen Serpent
1621
From the collection of Statens Museum for Kunst
The Brazen Serpent is a 1621 by Unknown, held at Statens Museum for Kunst.
This crowded scene shows a mix of people—some standing, some kneeling, others lying down—all dressed in flowing robes or no clothes at all. A tall figure in a blue robe holds a long pole with a coiled snake on top, while others around him react with surprise, fear, or prayer. In the background, tents and trees line a bright, cloudy sky, and a few people float or stand near the top edge like they’re not quite part of the crowd below. The snake on the pole looks like the focus of everyone’s attention, with some reaching toward it. The painting mixes realistic faces with dramatic poses, making the scene feel both chaotic and carefully arranged. If you like this style, check out *chiaroscuro* for more about how light and shadow create drama in art.
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