Who painted Den gamle Simeon med Jesusbarnet?

Den gamle Simeon med Jesusbarnet was painted by Unknown.

Where can I see Den gamle Simeon med Jesusbarnet?

Den gamle Simeon med Jesusbarnet is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

Artwork

Den gamle Simeon med Jesusbarnet

Den gamle Simeon med Jesusbarnet is an unspecified painting by Unknown. It is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

The work portrays an elderly, bearded man dressed in a tall, brimmed hat crowned with a decorative band, cradling an infant who reaches upward. The composition is set against a dark backdrop, emphasizing the contrast between the illuminated garments and the child's pale skin. The figures convey a solemn, reflective atmosphere, inviting contemplation of the relationship between the two subjects.

Subject & Meaning

The central figures are identified as the aged Simeon and the infant Jesus, a biblical scene traditionally associated with the presentation of the child at the temple. Simeon’s serious expression and the baby’s upward gaze suggest a moment of recognition and fulfillment of prophecy, underscoring themes of faith, patience, and divine revelation.

Technique & Style

The painter employs chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts of light and shadow to model the forms and create a sense of three‑dimensionality. The illumination falls on the faces and clothing, while the surrounding darkness recedes, directing focus to the interaction between the two figures. The handling of light contributes to the work’s contemplative mood and visual depth.

Context

The subject derives from the Gospel of Luke, where Simeon, a devout elder, is promised to see the Messiah before his death. This narrative was a popular motif in Northern European art of the 16th and 17th centuries, often used to explore themes of piety and the fulfillment of divine promise within a domestic, intimate setting.