Artwork
The Death of Lucretia
The Death of Lucretia is a wood painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Joos van Cleve. It dates from 1522 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1522 on oakwood, *The Death of Lucretia* is a history painting by Joos van Cleve, a prominent Antwerp artist known for merging Early Netherlandish methods with Renaissance elements.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the tragic moment of Lucretia, a figure from Roman history, conveying themes of betrayal and sacrifice through her pose, attire, and the prominently held dagger.
Technique & Style
Van Cleve’s blend of Early Netherlandish attention to detail and Renaissance influences is evident in the work’s composition, the subject’s expressive portrait, and the contrast between the dark background and the figure’s adorned, yet somber, attire.
History & Provenance
Painted during van Cleve’s active membership in the Guild of Saint Luke, the work is now part of the collection at the Kunsthistorisches Museum, reflecting the artist’s contribution to the Dutch and Flemish Renaissance through his prolific workshop.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Joos van Cleve (; also Joos van der Beke; c. 1485–1490 – 1540/1541) was a leading painter active in Antwerp from his arrival there around 1511 until his death in 1540 or 1541. Within Dutch and Flemish Renaissance…
