Artwork

Ruth and Boaz

Ruth and Boaz, by Barent Fabritius, oil, 1660
Ruth and Boaz, by Barent Fabritius, oil, 1660

Ruth and Boaz is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Barent Fabritius. It dates from 1660 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

Barent Fabritius's 1660 oil painting, Ruth and Boaz, is a biblical scene rendered in a characteristic Dutch Golden Age style. The work is part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Ruth, seated on the ground with a bundle of wheat, approached by Boaz, who gestures towards her while holding a pitchfork. The scene is set amidst a rural harvest landscape with other workers in the background.

Technique & Style

Fabritius employs chiaroscuro to create depth and emphasize the central figures, drawing attention to the interaction between Ruth and Boaz through the use of light and shadow.

History & Provenance

Created in 1660 by Barent Fabritius, a Dutch painter trained alongside his brothers and possibly Rembrandt, Ruth and Boaz exemplifies the artist's work in religious subjects.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Barent Fabritius

Artist

Barent Fabritius

Barent or Bernard Pietersz Fabritius (or Fabricius) (bapt. 16 November 1624 – bur. 20 October 1673), was a Dutch painter. Fabritius was born at Middenbeemster, North Holland, the son of Pieter Carelsz. Fabritius. He…

Hermitage Museum

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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