Artwork

Homer Dictating to Scribes

Homer Dictating to Scribes, by Arent de Gelder, oil, 1705
Homer Dictating to Scribes, by Arent de Gelder, oil, 1705

Homer Dictating to Scribes is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Arent de Gelder. It dates from 1705 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.

About this work

Overview

Homer Dictating to Scribes is a 1705 oil painting by Arent de Gelder, a Dutch artist known for carrying on Rembrandt's style into the 18th century.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the ancient Greek poet Homer surrounded by scribes, capturing the moment he dictates his verses. The scene conveys a sense of importance and creative transmission.

Technique & Style

The work showcases de Gelder's use of impasto, a technique characterized by thick, textured brushstrokes that give the subjects a three-dimensional appearance. The painting's style is associated with the Rococo movement.

History & Provenance

The painting is now part of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Arent de Gelder

Artist

Arent de Gelder

Aert de Gelder (Dutch: ; October 26, 1645 – August 27, 1727) was a Dutch painter, the only Dutch artist to paint in the tradition of Rembrandt's late style into the 18th century.