Artwork

Tribute Money

Tribute Money, by after Sir Peter Paul Rubens, chalk, 1608
Tribute Money, by after Sir Peter Paul Rubens, chalk, 1608

Tribute Money is a chalk drawing by the Renaissance artist after Sir Peter Paul Rubens. It dates from 1608 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Tribute Money is a red chalk drawing on laid paper, depicting a scene of Jesus engaged with a group of robed men, centered around a coin he holds, set against a background with a wall and window.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing illustrates a biblical moment where Jesus makes a point to a gathering, likely referencing the 'Tribute Money' episode, conveying an atmosphere of contemplative discussion through facial expressions and body language.

Technique & Style

Executed in red chalk, the work employs strong contrasts of light and dark, suggestive of chiaroscuro techniques, which create depth and volume in the composition, particularly in the rendering of figures and architectural elements.

Context

The style and use of chiaroscuro link the drawing to artistic practices of its time, possibly indicating influence from or similarity to contemporary artists who utilized such lighting effects for dramatic and spatial purposes.

The Tribute Money
The Tribute Money, Rembrandt van Rijn

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Tribute Money?

Tribute Money was painted by after Sir Peter Paul Rubens in 1608.

Where can I see Tribute Money?

Tribute Money is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Tribute Money?

Tribute Money is associated with Renaissance.