Who painted Jonah Cast Out by the Whale onto the Shore of Nineveh?

Jonah Cast Out by the Whale onto the Shore of Nineveh was painted by Maarten van Heemskerck in 1566.

Where can I see Jonah Cast Out by the Whale onto the Shore of Nineveh?

Jonah Cast Out by the Whale onto the Shore of Nineveh is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Jonah Cast Out by the Whale onto the Shore of Nineveh?

Jonah Cast Out by the Whale onto the Shore of Nineveh is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Jonah Cast Out by the Whale onto the Shore of Nineveh

Maarten van Heemskerck , 1566

Jonah Cast Out by the Whale onto the Shore of Nineveh is a drawing by the Renaissance artist Maarten van Heemskerck. It dates from 1566 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Maarten van Heemskerck's drawing, Jonah Cast Out by the Whale onto the Shore of Nineveh, depicts a pivotal moment from the biblical book of Jonah. The second in a series of four illustrations, it shows the prophet being expelled from a giant fish onto dry land.

Subject & Meaning

The scene illustrates Jonah's regurgitation after three days inside the fish, an event often symbolizing exile, redemption, and prefiguring Christ's resurrection. Jonah's expression conveys surprise rather than relief as he hovers mid-air, set against a dramatic backdrop of crashing waves and swirling storm clouds.

Technique & Style

Heemskerck employed a dull knife to indent the drawing onto a copperplate for engraving by Philips Galle. The work reflects his exposure to Italian art, incorporating characteristic figures and architecture sketched during his 1530s Italian trip, with chiaroscuro techniques enhancing the dramatic lighting and shadows.

History & Provenance

Created in mid-16th century Haarlem, this drawing exemplifies Heemskerck's prolific output as a leading Northern European print designer. His role in introducing Italian artistic influences to the region is notable.

Artist & collection

Artist

Maarten van Heemskerck

Maarten van Heemskerck (born Maerten Jacobsz van Veen; 1 June 1498 – 1 October 1574), also known as Marten Jacobsz Heemskerk van Veen, was a Dutch portrait and religious painter, who spent most of his career in Haarlem.