Artwork
Diogenes searches for an honest person with his lantarn
Diogenes searches for an honest person with his lantarn is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Adriaen van der Werff. It dates from 1690 and is held in the collection of the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden.
About this work
Overview
Diogenes searches for an honest person with his lantern is a 1690 oil painting by Dutch artist Adriaen van der Werff, depicting a scene inspired by the ancient Greek philosopher Diogenes of Sinope.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates Diogenes' legendary quest for honesty, symbolized by his lantern, even in daylight. Accompanied by a barefoot youth and woman, the scene conveys a sense of moral inquiry amidst everyday life.
Technique & Style
Van der Werff employs chiaroscuro, contrasting a warm, glowing lantern light on Diogenes' face with partial illumination of the companions and a dark, mysterious background, creating depth and dramatic tension.
History & Provenance
Created during the Dutch Golden Age, the work is part of the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister collection. Van der Werff, known for diverse subjects, also produced art for the Medici family.
Artist & collection
Artist
Adriaen van der Werff (21 January 1659 – 12 November 1722) was a Dutch painter of portraits and erotic, devotional and mythological scenes.
Cupid Kissing Venus (Venus Kissed by Amor)
God Holds Adam and Eve Responsible
A Nymph Dancing to a Shepherd's Flute-Playing
The Holy Family
Bubble-blowing Girl with a Vanitas Still Life
Virgin and Child with Saint John (chalk sketch)
Self-portrait with the Portrait of his Wife, Margaretha van Rees, and their Daughter Maria
Portrait of Johann Wilhelm Elector of Palatine (1658-1716)
