Artwork
Biblical scene
Biblical scene is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Ferdinand Bol. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands Art Collection.
About this work
History & Provenance
While the work belongs to the national art collection managed by the Rijksdienst, it is not on public display but stored in the Rijksmuseum's depot facilities.
The painting entered the collection of the Rijksmuseum through the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands (Rijksdienst Beeldende Kunst), where it is currently held in the museum’s depot. Its creation date is recorded as 1650. The work is classified as a religious genre painting by Ferdinand Bol.
The painting is currently held in the depot of the Rijksdienst Beeldende Kunst (Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands Art Collection) at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. While the work belongs to the national art collection managed by the Rijksdienst, it is not on public display but stored in the Rijksmuseum's depot facilities. The inventory records associate the piece with the broader holdings of the Rijksmuseum and the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands.
Overview
Biblical scene is a 17th-century oil painting by Ferdinand Bol, a Dutch artist known for his work in multiple mediums.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts an intimate moment between an angel and an older bearded man, likely drawn from a biblical narrative, with the angel's gentle touch on the man's shoulder and his upward gesture suggesting a moment of divine communication.
Technique & Style
The use of chiaroscuro, a strong contrast between light and dark, emphasizes the figures' faces and hands, creating a sense of drama and focus. The style reflects the influence of Bol's master, Rembrandt, in its historical subject matter and elaborate, though subdued, attire.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Ferdinand Bol (24 June 1616 - 24 August 1680) was a Dutch painter, etcher and draftsman.
Museum
Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands Art Collection
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