Artwork
The suicide of Lucretia
The suicide of Lucretia is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Master with the Parrot. It dates from 1500 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
She holds a poignard (dagger) against her body, blood is visible, and her pose conveys both vulnerability and the violent act.
The painting depicts Lucretia at the moment of her suicide, seated in an armchair with waist‑length blond hair, a necklace and pendant, and see‑through clothing that reveals her topless torso. She holds a poignard (dagger) against her body, blood is visible, and her pose conveys both vulnerability and the violent act. The iconography, exposed flesh, weapon, blood, and domestic setting, emphasizes the physical and emotional trauma of the scene, focusing attention on the act of self‑destruction itself as the central narrative.
History & Provenance
The painting is dated to circa 1500 and was executed by the Master with the Parrot in oil on panel. It is presently held in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, forming part of that museum’s collection. The available sources do not record any specific commission or earlier owners for the work.
Overview
The painting, titled The Suicide of Lucretia, depicts a solitary female figure. Executed on a panel, this work focuses on a pivotal moment from classical history. The composition highlights the woman's solemn expression and the small weapon she holds, suggesting a dramatic narrative.
Her attire, featuring a rich cloak and jewelry, contrasts with the starkness of her impending act, drawing the viewer into the scene's emotional weight.
Technique & Style
The artist employs a dramatic visual approach to emphasize the figure of Lucretia. Her form, adorned in a vibrant red and gold cloak over a light-colored dress, is sharply delineated against a deep, undifferentiated background. This strong contrast of light and shadow, known as chiaroscuro, serves to heighten the emotional intensity of the scene. The technique draws attention to her features and the significant details of her attire and the dagger.
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Artist & collection
Artist
The Master with the Parrot or Master of the Parrot (fl. between 1520 and 1540) is the notname given to a group of Flemish painters who likely worked in a workshop in Antwerp in the first half of the 16th century. They…
