Artwork

Daniel in the Lion's Den

Daniel in the Lion's Den, by Eugène Delacroix, oil, 1853
Daniel in the Lion's Den, by Eugène Delacroix, oil, 1853

Daniel in the Lion's Den is an oil painting by the French Romanticist artist Eugène Delacroix. It dates from 1853 and is held in the collection of the Foundation E.G. Bührle Collection.

About this work

Overview

Daniel in the Lion's Den is a 1853 oil painting by Eugène Delacroix, a prominent French Romantic artist.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the biblical figure Daniel seated calmly among lions in a dark den, conveying a sense of serenity despite the perilous surroundings.

Technique & Style

Delacroix's use of chiaroscuro creates a dramatic contrast between the dark background and the figures of Daniel and the lions, emphasizing their forms. Muted colors and loose brushwork characterize the work, reflecting Delacroix's emphasis on expressive color and movement.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held in the Kunsthaus Zürich collection, exemplifying Delacroix's exploration of religious themes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Eugène Delacroix

Artist

Eugène Delacroix

Ferdinand Victor Eugène Delacroix ( DEL-ə-krwah, -⁠KRWAH; French: ; 26 April 1798 – 13 August 1863) was a French Romantic artist who was regarded as the leader of the French Romantic school.