Who painted Opwekking van Lazarus?

Opwekking van Lazarus was painted by Florimond Van Acker in 1892.

Where can I see Opwekking van Lazarus?

Opwekking van Lazarus is held by Groeningemuseum.

What movement is Opwekking van Lazarus?

Opwekking van Lazarus is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Opwekking van Lazarus

Florimond Van Acker , 1892

Opwekking van Lazarus is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Florimond Van Acker. It dates from 1892 and is held in the collection of the Groeningemuseum.

About this work

Overview

Florimond Van Acker’s 1892 oil painting *Opwekking van Lazarus* presents the biblical miracle of Jesus restoring Lazarus to life. Executed in a restrained palette of browns, beiges and grays, the composition centers on a radiant figure of Christ, whose gestures and halo emphasize his pivotal role in the narrative.

Subject & Meaning

The work captures the moment of resurrection, with Jesus standing between the tomb and the mourners. His right hand extends outward, suggesting command, while his left hand clutches a cloth, perhaps symbolising the veil between death and life. The surrounding figures convey grief and astonishment, underscoring themes of faith, hope and divine intervention.

Technique & Style

Van Acker employs a neo‑romantic sensibility blended with impressionistic brushwork, allowing light to glide across the figures without sacrificing emotional depth. The muted earth tones create a solemn atmosphere, while subtle tonal variations give the scene a tactile presence. The halo is rendered with a delicate, luminous glaze that distinguishes the sacred from the earthly.

History & Provenance

Created in 1892, the painting entered the collection of the Groeningemuseum in Bruges, where it remains on display. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s focus on 19th‑century Belgian art and its commitment to preserving works that illustrate the intersection of religious narrative and modern stylistic currents.

Context

During the late 19th century, Belgian artists like Van Acker explored spiritual subjects through contemporary visual languages, responding to both the revival of religious art and the rise of impressionism. *Opwekking van Lazarus* exemplifies this dialogue, situating a traditional biblical episode within the evolving aesthetic concerns of the period.

Artist & collection

Artist

Florimond Van Acker

Flori Van Acker or Florimond Marie Van Acker (6 April 1858 – 14 March 1940) was a neo-romantic, impressionist Belgian painter, engraver, stamp designer and director of the Academy of Bruges.