Artwork

Joseph orders Simeon’s Imprisonment

Joseph orders Simeon’s Imprisonment, by Antonio del Castillo y Saavedra, oil, 1655
Joseph orders Simeon’s Imprisonment, by Antonio del Castillo y Saavedra, oil, 1655

Joseph orders Simeon’s Imprisonment is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Antonio del Castillo y Saavedra. It dates from 1655 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Overview

Joseph orders Simeon’s Imprisonment is an oil painting by Antonio del Castillo y Saavedra, created in 1655. It is part of the Museo del Prado's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a dramatic scene in an open courtyard, centered around a shirtless man kneeling on the ground, surrounded by onlookers and figures of authority. The scene is likely a biblical narrative, with the figures' actions and expressions conveying tension and conflict.

Technique & Style

The use of chiaroscuro, a strong contrast between light and shadow, creates a sense of depth and highlights the figures. The artist's application of light and shadow makes the characters stand out against the background, which features ruins and distant buildings under a cloudy sky.

Artist & collection

Museo del Prado

Museum

Museo del Prado

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museo del Prado open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.