Susanna harassed by the Elders (Daniel 13:1-63)

Susanna harassed by the Elders (Daniel 13:1-63)

Jacob Jordaens

1643

oil

From the collection of Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

About this work

This painting depicts a dramatic scene of a woman, Susanna, being harassed by two older men. She is shown sitting on the ground, her arms wrapped around her body, with a look of fear and distress on her face. The two men, dressed in dark robes, are looming over her, their faces twisted in lecherous grins. In the background, a peacock is visible, adding a sense of opulence and grandeur to the scene. The overall atmosphere is one of tension and unease, as Susanna tries to defend herself against the unwanted advances of the two men. The use of chiaroscuro in this painting creates a sense of depth and drama, drawing the viewer's eye to the central figures. For more information on this technique, look up chiaroscuro.

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