Where can I see Noah's Ark?

Noah's Ark is held by Rijksmuseum.

What movement is Noah's Ark?

Noah's Ark is associated with Mannerism.

Noah's Ark (1587) · Meaning & Museum · Artifact World Gallery

About this work

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the Genesis flood narrative, centering on Noah's Ark as its main subject.

The painting depicts the Genesis flood narrative, centering on Noah's Ark as its main subject. The work visualizes the biblical story through identifiable figures and creatures, including Noah himself and an array of animals such as an elephant, a horse, a lion, and a bird. The inclusion of both domesticated and exotic beasts reflects the traditional iconography of the ark, in which pairs of every living creature are gathered for preservation from the deluge.

Classified as religious art, the composition functions as a visual retelling of the Old Testament episode, using the assembled menagerie and the figure of Noah to convey themes of divine judgment, salvation, and covenant. The wide horizontal format of the panel, measuring 129 by 200 centimetres, accommodates the procession of animals and the architectural presence of the vessel, reinforcing the narrative scope of the flood story.

Technique & Style

The work is executed in oil paint on a wooden panel, measuring approximately 129 × 200 cm, within the religious art category. It depicts scenes from the Genesis flood narrative, including Noah, the ark, and various animals such as an elephant, horse, and lion. The painting dates to 1594 and is attributed to an artist working in the Northern Low Countries. It is housed in the Rijksmuseum collection.

History & Provenance

Noah's Ark was created in 1594 in the Northern Low Countries as an oil painting on panel. It measures 129 cm in height by 200 cm in width and portrays the biblical flood narrative with figures including Noah, the ark, and various animals. The painting is attributed to an anonymous artist and is classified as religious art. It is part of the Rijksmuseum's holdings of 16th-century Dutch religious paintings.

Overview

Noah's Ark is an oil painting depicting a tumultuous scene of humanity and animals gathered on a rocky shoreline. The composition conveys a sense of urgency and struggle, with numerous figures and creatures densely packed together. A stormy sky looms in the background, suggesting an impending cataclysm. The work captures a moment of intense emotion and physical exertion as individuals navigate the chaotic environment.