The Departure of Benjamin
1650
oil
From the collection of Mauritshuis
1650
oil
From the collection of Mauritshuis
This painting shows a group of people gathered around a man in a red robe, who is holding a sword and appears to be leaving. The man is barefoot and has his back to the viewer. A woman in a dark dress and head covering stands to the left, while three men in various attire surround the central figure. The scene is set in a dimly lit room with a low ceiling, and the atmosphere is somber. The artist has used chiaroscuro to create a sense of depth and contrast, with the light source coming from the right side of the painting. The use of chiaroscuro in this painting creates a dramatic and emotional effect, drawing the viewer's attention to the central figure and his departure.
