Artifact World Gallery
Get the iOS app

The ascension of Elijah by David Colijns

David Colijns · 1627-01-01

David Colijns' "The Ascension of Elijah," painted in 1627 and housed at the Rijksmuseum, captures a powerful moment from the Hebrew Scriptures. While Colijns may not be as widely known as some of his contemporaries, this painting demonstrates the dramatic flair characteristic of the Dutch Golden Age.

Notice the vibrant fiery chariot and the horses, rendered with immense power as they ascend through a stormy sky. The intense chiaroscuro, contrasting the dark forest with the divine light, was a sophisticated technique for its time.

Colijns' work is a strong example of how biblical narratives were adapted into compelling visual stories during the 1620s. It reminds us that artistic innovation wasn't limited to the most famous names, and many artists contributed to the rich tapestry of Dutch art.

What other "hidden gems" of art do you admire?

Details

The prophet Elijah is taken to heaven by a fiery chariot.
The prophet Elijah is taken to heaven by a fiery chariot.
David Colijns, the artist, is not a famous name today.
David Colijns, the artist, is not a famous name today.
But his use of dramatic light and shadow was cutting-edge.
But his use of dramatic light and shadow was cutting-edge.
He captures the horses mid-air, with incredible power.
He captures the horses mid-air, with incredible power.
Many Dutch Golden Age artists painted dramatic scenes like this.
Many Dutch Golden Age artists painted dramatic scenes like this.
Transcript

This painting from 1627 captures a biblical miracle. The prophet Elijah is taken to heaven by a fiery chariot. David Colijns, the artist, is not a famous name today. But his use of dramatic light and shadow was cutting-edge. He captures the horses mid-air, with incredible power. Many Dutch Golden Age artists painted dramatic scenes like this. It shows why this lesser-known artist still deserves a look.