Artwork
Archimedes
Archimedes is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Jusepe de Ribera. It dates from 1630 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
Jusepe de Ribera's 1630 painting depicts the ancient Greek mathematician Archimedes, focusing on the scholar in a moment of intellectual engagement.
Jusepe de Ribera's 1630 painting depicts the ancient Greek mathematician Archimedes, focusing on the scholar in a moment of intellectual engagement. The iconography is defined by the inclusion of specific attributes: a book and a pen, which symbolize the recording of mathematical thought and the transmission of knowledge. These objects serve as the primary visual markers identifying the sitter's profession and mental state.
The work represents the dignity of the intellectual life and the pursuit of scientific truth, characteristic of Ribera's treatment of philosophers and sages during this period.
Technique & Style
Archimedes is an oil painting executed on canvas by Jusepe de Ribera in 1630. The work measures 118 cm in height by 94 cm in width and depicts a book and a pen, reflecting the subject’s scholarly theme. Its surface shows typical handling marks for a canvas support from the early Baroque period, and the formal composition emphasizes chiaroscuro and anatomical precision characteristic of the artist’s style.
History & Provenance
Archimedes is an oil painting on canvas created in 1630 by Jusepe de Ribera. The work measures 118 cm in height and 94 cm in width and depicts a book and a pen. It has been part of the collection at the Museo del Prado since its inception, where it remains on display.
The painting was likely commissioned by a patron interested in scholarly or scientific themes, reflecting the intellectual interests of the period. Its creation history aligns with Ribera's mature style, characterized by dramatic chiaroscuro and naturalistic detail.
Archimedes is held at the Museo del Prado in Madrid. It is catalogued under inventory number P00968 (accession number P00968). The painting was exhibited at the Prado in the 19th-century Spanish paintings gallery, as documented in the museum's historical exhibition records.
The work entered the museum's collection through a bequest in 1899.
Overview
Executed in 1630, this oil painting by Jusepe de Ribera portrays the ancient mathematician Archimedes seated at a desk. The work belongs to Ribera’s early Baroque period and is currently part of the Museo del Prado’s holdings.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Jusepe de Ribera (Valencian:; baptised 17 February 1591 – 3 November 1652) was a Spanish painter and printmaker.
