Artwork

The Raising of Lazarus

The Raising of Lazarus, by Jean Jouvenet, unspecified, 1711
The Raising of Lazarus, by Jean Jouvenet, unspecified, 1711

The Raising of Lazarus is an unspecified painting by the French Classical Baroque artist Jean Jouvenet. It dates from 1711 and is held in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Raising of Lazarus, a 1711 painting by French artist Jean Jouvenet, belongs to the French Classical Baroque period. It portrays the biblical resurrection of Lazarus, balancing dramatic elements with subdued emotional expression. The work is part of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates the New Testament scene of Jesus resurrecting Lazarus. Central to the composition is Jesus, clad in a blue robe and red sash, with his arm extended towards the recumbent Lazarus, who is shrouded in white. The crowd's varied reactions—shock, outreach—underscore the miraculous event's impact.

Technique & Style

Jouvenet employs chiaroscuro to create dramatic depth, highlighting Jesus' pivotal gesture. The contrast between light and shadow accentuates the scene's reverence and awe, characteristic of the Baroque style's emotional intensity, albeit restrained in Jouvenet's interpretation.

History & Provenance

Completed in 1711, the painting is a product of the French Classical Baroque era. Its current location is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, though the full provenance details are not provided here.

Context

Created during the French Classical Baroque period, the work reflects the era's blend of religious themes with dramatic, emotionally charged artwork. The scene's setting, with its rocks and background building, adds a sense of realism and spatial depth.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jean Jouvenet

Artist

Jean Jouvenet

Jean-Baptiste Jouvenet (French pronunciation: ; 1 May 1644 – 5 April 1717) was a French painter, especially of religious subjects.