Artwork

The Presentation at the Temple

The Presentation at the Temple, by Barent Fabritius, oil, 1668
The Presentation at the Temple, by Barent Fabritius, oil, 1668

The Presentation at the Temple is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Barent Fabritius. It dates from 1668 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

The Presentation at the Temple is a 1668 oil painting by Barent Fabritius, a Dutch artist active during the Dutch Golden Age.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts the biblical event of the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple, with the Virgin Mary kneeling and presenting the infant Jesus, surrounded by other figures participating in the ceremony or observing from a balcony.

Technique & Style

The painting features a dramatic chiaroscuro effect, with strong contrasts between light and dark that draw attention to key elements and figures, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere in the crowded indoor scene.

History & Provenance

Created in 1668, The Presentation at the Temple is now held in the Statens Museum for Kunst, having been painted by Barent Fabritius, who was trained alongside his brothers and possibly under Rembrandt.

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…