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The Slaughter of the Priests of Samaria, by Philip Galle, ink, 1569

The Slaughter of the Priests of Samaria

Philip Galle

1569

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

The Slaughter of the Priests of Samaria is a 1569 ink by Philip Galle, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Philip Galle
When & what style?
1569 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

The painting shows a chaotic scene with many figures in a large, open space. There are stairs and archways in the background, and the figures are dressed in ancient-style clothing. Some are holding weapons or shields, while others appear to be fleeing or fighting. In the foreground, a group of men are gathered around a central figure, who seems to be the focus of the scene. The men are all looking at this figure, and some are reaching out towards him. The atmosphere is one of tension and conflict. This painting is an example of Renaissance art, which often featured scenes from ancient mythology and history. To learn more about this style, you can explore the Renaissance movement.

About the artist

Portrait of Philip Galle
Artist

Philip Galle

Philip (or Philips) Galle (1537 – March 1612) was a Dutch publisher, best known for publishing old master prints, which he also produced as designer and engraver. He is especially known for his reproductive engravings of paintings.

See the richer artist page

More by Philip Galle

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