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The Wolf and the Convent Bell

Allart van Everdingen

1650

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque Baroque Allegory

Dominant colour

The Wolf and the Convent Bell is a 1650 ink by Allart van Everdingen, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Allart van Everdingen
When & what style?: 1650 · Baroque
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This etching depicts a chaotic scene within a church, where a wolf is suspended from the ceiling by a rope. The wolf's body is limp, and its head is tilted downward. In the foreground, a group of monks are shown, some of whom are reaching up towards the wolf. The background of the image features a large arched window and a stone pillar. The etching's use of shading and texture adds depth and dimension to the scene, drawing the viewer's eye to the central figure of the wolf. The monks' reactions to the wolf's presence are varied, with some appearing to be in a state of shock or horror. The etching's use of chiaroscuro and dramatic lighting creates a sense of tension and drama, emphasizing the wolf's presence in the sacred space. For more information on the artist's use of etching, explore the technique of etching.