Artwork

Der Tod des Cato von Utica

Der Tod des Cato von Utica, by Jean-Baptiste Corneille, unspecified, 1672
Der Tod des Cato von Utica, by Jean-Baptiste Corneille, unspecified, 1672

Der Tod des Cato von Utica is an unspecified painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Jean-Baptiste Corneille. It dates from 1672 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.

About this work

Overview

Der Tod des Cato von Utica is a 1672 painting by French artist Jean-Baptiste Corneille, held in the Alte Pinakothek. It is associated with the Flemish Baroque movement.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the death of Cato of Utica, a historical figure who opposed Julius Caesar. A group of figures surrounds a bed, where Cato lies, creating a tense atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Corneille employed chiaroscuro to create depth and volume, using strong contrasts between light and dark to heighten the drama of the scene. The dark background accentuates the figures in the foreground.

Artist & collection

Artist

Jean-Baptiste Corneille

Jean-Baptiste Corneille (French pronunciation: ; 2 December 1649 – 12 April 1695) was a French painter, etcher, and engraver.