Artwork

The Resurrection

The Resurrection, by David Teniers the Younger, oil, 1653
The Resurrection, by David Teniers the Younger, oil, 1653

The Resurrection is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist David Teniers the Younger. It dates from 1653 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.

About this work

Overview

David Teniers the Younger’s 1653 oil on canvas, titled The Resurrection, portrays the biblical moment of Christ’s emergence from the tomb. The composition centers on the risen figure, surrounded by a group of onlookers that includes both armored soldiers and civilians. The work is part of the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.

Subject & Meaning

The painting visualizes the Christian narrative of Jesus’ triumph over death, emphasizing the contrast between the divine figure and the earthly witnesses. The presence of a soldier among the crowd underscores the historical context of Roman authority, while the surrounding figures convey a range of reactions to the miraculous event.

Technique & Style

Teniers employs a pronounced chiaroscuro, juxtaposing deep shadows with a luminous sky that bathes the central figure in radiant light. A varied palette creates atmospheric depth, and the careful modeling of flesh against the darker background enhances the drama of the resurrection scene.

History & Provenance

Created in the mid‑17th century, The Resurrection has remained in public ownership, ultimately entering the National Gallery of Ireland’s holdings. Its provenance reflects the artist’s reputation within the Flemish Baroque tradition and the work’s continued relevance to religious art collections.

Artist & collection

Portrait of David Teniers the Younger

Artist

David Teniers the Younger

David Teniers the Younger or David Teniers II was a Flemish Baroque painter, printmaker, and artist.