Artwork

The peace negotiation between Claudius Civilis and Quintus Petillius Cerealis on the demolished bridge

The peace negotiation between Claudius Civilis and Quintus Petillius Cerealis on the demolished bridge, by Ferdinand Bol, oil, 1660
The peace negotiation between Claudius Civilis and Quintus Petillius Cerealis on the demolished bridge, by Ferdinand Bol, oil, 1660

The peace negotiation between Claudius Civilis and Quintus Petillius Cerealis on the demolished bridge is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Ferdinand Bol. It dates from 1660 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

This 1660 oil painting by Ferdinand Bol captures a pivotal moment of negotiation between Roman and Batavian leaders amidst a backdrop of destruction, specifically on a demolished bridge.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts Claudius Civilis and Quintus Petillius Cerealis in apparent negotiation, set against the chaos of a ruined bridge, with the former pointing towards a crowd and the latter with a hand on his chest, surrounded by varied reactions from soldiers and civilians.

Technique & Style

Bol employed chiaroscuro, characterized by deep shadows and bright highlights, to make the central figures stand out against a dark, ominous sky and rocky cliffside, with a winged figure adding an enigmatic element.

History & Provenance

Created during the Dutch Golden Age, the painting reflects Bol's training under Rembrandt, evident in its historical subject matter. It is currently part of the Rijksmuseum's collection.

Context

Painted in 1660, the work contextualizes the artistic influences of the time, blending historical narrative with the dramatic lighting techniques prevalent during the period.

Legacy

As a work by a prominent pupil of Rembrandt, it contributes to the understanding of the master's influence on subsequent generations of Dutch painters, though its specific impact on art history is not broadly highlighted in available sources.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Ferdinand Bol

Artist

Ferdinand Bol

Ferdinand Bol (24 June 1616 - 24 August 1680) was a Dutch painter, etcher and draftsman.

Rijksmuseum

Museum

Rijksmuseum

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