Who painted The prophet Elias and the widow of Sarepta?

The prophet Elias and the widow of Sarepta was painted by Bernardo Strozzi in 1630.

Where can I see The prophet Elias and the widow of Sarepta?

The prophet Elias and the widow of Sarepta is held by Kunsthistorisches Museum.

What movement is The prophet Elias and the widow of Sarepta?

The prophet Elias and the widow of Sarepta is associated with Early Baroque Italian.

Can I buy a print of The prophet Elias and the widow of Sarepta?

Museum-quality prints of The prophet Elias and the widow of Sarepta are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

The prophet Elias and the widow of Sarepta

Bernardo Strozzi , 1630

The prophet Elias and the widow of Sarepta is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Bernardo Strozzi. It dates from 1630 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Overview

Bernardo Strozzi executed *The Prophet Elias and the Widow of Sarepta* in 1630 with oil on canvas. The painting, now part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum collection, presents a compact interior scene that brings together the Old Testament prophet Elijah and the biblical widow of Zarephath, accompanied by her child.

Subject & Meaning

The work visualizes the moment when Elijah, a wandering prophet, is received by the impoverished widow. The woman's anxious expression and the child's inquisitive gesture convey the tension and hope inherent in the biblical narrative of divine providence and hospitality.

Technique & Style

Strozzi employs a pronounced chiaroscuro, allowing a narrow beam of light to illuminate the faces of the three figures against a darkened background. The contrast heightens the intimacy of the encounter and underscores the Baroque interest in drama and emotional immediacy.

History & Provenance

Created during Strozzi’s early Baroque period, the painting reflects his activity in Genoa before his later relocation to Venice. It entered the Kunsthistorisches Museum’s holdings at an unspecified date, where it remains on display as an example of his religious genre output.

Context

Strozzi, known as il Cappuccino and il Prete Genovese, was a pivotal figure in the development of Baroque painting in both Genoa and Venice. His synthesis of dramatic lighting and naturalistic detail contributed to the emergence of a distinct Venetian Baroque style.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Bernardo Strozzi

Bernardo Strozzi, named il Cappuccino and il Prete Genovese (c. 1581 – 2 August 1644), was an Italian Baroque artist who was a painter and engraver. A canvas and fresco artist, his wide subject range included history,…