Artwork

The Raising of Lazarus

The Raising of Lazarus, by Jan Pynas, oil, 1620
The Raising of Lazarus, by Jan Pynas, oil, 1620

The Raising of Lazarus is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Jan Pynas. It dates from 1620 and is held in the collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Raising of Lazarus is a 1620 religious oil painting by Jan Pynas, currently part of the Philadelphia Museum of Art's collection. It depicts the biblical scene of Lazarus's resurrection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates the moment Lazarus emerges from his tomb, wrapped in a white cloth, surrounded by onlookers and Jesus, who gestures towards him. The scene conveys a range of emotions, contrasting the bystanders' shock with Jesus' calm demeanor.

Technique & Style

Pynas employs chiaroscuro, juxtaposing a dark background with vibrant, brightly colored figures in the foreground, to create depth and emphasize the central miraculous event.

History & Provenance

Created in 1620, the painting's ownership history prior to its acquisition by the Philadelphia Museum of Art is not detailed here.

Context

As a 17th-century Dutch interpretation of a New Testament miracle, the work reflects the religious themes common in Baroque-era art, though specific contextual influences on Pynas are not elaborated here.

Legacy

While the painting's broader impact or notable exhibitions are not specified, it remains a significant example of early 17th-century religious art in the museum's holdings.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jan Pynas

Artist

Jan Pynas

Jan Pynas (1583–1631) was an artist, born in Alkmaar.