Cimon and Iphigenia (Boccaccio, Decamerone, 5:1)
1640
oil
From the collection of National Galleries Scotland
1640
oil
From the collection of National Galleries Scotland
The painting depicts a serene scene of two figures, Cimon and Iphigenia, set against a tranquil landscape. Cimon, dressed in a red tunic, stands to the right, holding a staff and gesturing towards Iphigenia. She lies on the ground, covered by a white cloth, with her head resting on a green pillow. A small bird is seen lying on the ground in front of them. In the background, a few trees and a large rock formation are visible, with a blue sky and white clouds above. The overall atmosphere of the painting is one of calmness and serenity. To learn more about the artist's use of chiaroscuro, impasto, and sfumato techniques, explore the works of Cornelius van Poelenburgh.