Who painted Der bethlehemitische Kindermord?

Der bethlehemitische Kindermord was painted by Antonio Tempesta in 1596.

Where can I see Der bethlehemitische Kindermord?

Der bethlehemitische Kindermord is held by Bavarian State Painting Collections.

What movement is Der bethlehemitische Kindermord?

Der bethlehemitische Kindermord is associated with Early Baroque Italian.

Artwork

Der bethlehemitische Kindermord

Antonio Tempesta , 1596

Der bethlehemitische Kindermord is an unspecified painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Antonio Tempesta. It dates from 1596 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.

About this work

Overview

Antonio Tempesta’s 1596 oil painting *Der bethlehemitische Kindermord* presents a tumultuous biblical episode. Executed in the early Baroque era, the work resides in Munich’s Alte Pinakothek. It belongs to the religious genre, portraying the Massacre of the Innocents in Bethlehem with a densely packed, emotionally charged composition.

Subject & Meaning

The scene captures the biblical slaughter ordered by King Herod, showing mothers, children, and soldiers in frantic motion. Figures lie sprawled on the ground while others flee, emphasizing the horror and desperation of the event. The narrative underscores themes of innocent suffering and tyrannical violence.

Technique & Style

Tempesta employs a dramatic chiaroscuro, contrasting deep shadows with illuminated bodies to heighten tension. A complex arrangement of overlapping planes creates multiple layers of activity, while a restrained palette of earth tones and muted reds adds depth. The painter’s handling of texture conveys the physicality of the chaos.

History & Provenance

Created during Tempesta’s period of synthesis between Roman Baroque and the artistic currents of Antwerp, the painting entered the Alte Pinakothek’s collection in the 19th century. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s focus on works that illustrate the cross‑regional exchange of early Baroque visual language.

Artist & collection

Artist

Antonio Tempesta

Antonio Tempesta, also called il Tempestino (1555 – 5 August 1630), was an Italian painter and engraver, whose art acted as a point of connection between Baroque Rome and the culture of Antwerp.