Artwork
Roundel with Joab Murdering Abner
Roundel with Joab Murdering Abner is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1515 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The work is a circular panel depicting a violent encounter on a rooftop.
About this work
Overview
The work is a circular panel depicting a violent encounter on a rooftop. A man in a fur‑trimmed cloak, wearing a tall feathered hat, raises a sword toward a kneeling opponent who clutches his head. A small figure in a doorway gestures toward the scene, while a castle looms in the background. The palette is dominated by muted greys and browns with touches of gold on the clothing and weapon.
Subject & Meaning
The episode illustrates a biblical power struggle, echoing narratives in which rival leaders confront one another. The aggressor’s poised sword and the victim’s desperate posture convey themes of betrayal and the lethal consequences of political ambition within the scriptural tradition.
Technique & Style
The artist employs a stark chiaroscuro, contrasting deep shadows with illuminated forms to accentuate the figures and heighten the drama. The composition is organized around the central clash, while the surrounding architecture and secondary figure provide depth and narrative context.
History & Provenance
Specific details about the painting’s creation date, artist, and ownership history are not provided in the source material, limiting the ability to trace its provenance or situate it within a particular artistic school.
Artist & collection
