Who painted Samson breaks his fetters?

Samson breaks his fetters was painted by Luca Giordano in 1652.

Where can I see Samson breaks his fetters?

Samson breaks his fetters is held by Kunsthistorisches Museum.

What movement is Samson breaks his fetters?

Samson breaks his fetters is associated with Early Baroque Italian.

Artwork

Samson breaks his fetters

Luca Giordano , 1652

Samson breaks his fetters is an unspecified painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Luca Giordano. It dates from 1652 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Overview

Luca Giordano's 'Samson breaks his fetters' is a 1652 religious painting depicting a pivotal moment from the biblical story of Samson. The work is part of the collection at the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays Samson, a half-naked figure with tense muscles, straining against ropes binding his wrists. A woman in red kneels beside him, attempting to intervene, while two men in the background react with a mix of engagement and avoidance. The scene conveys the struggle and drama leading up to Samson's escape.

Technique & Style

Giordano employs chiaroscuro, utilizing a strong, singular light source from the top left to create deep shadows. This contrast makes the figures stand out against the dark background. The ropes around Samson's wrists are rendered in a lifelike, tightly wrapped manner, enhancing the sense of tension.

History & Provenance

Created in 1652, the painting is now housed at the Kunsthistorisches Museum as part of its permanent collection.

Artist & collection

Artist

Luca Giordano

Luca Giordano was an Italian late-Baroque painter and printmaker in etching. Giordano was one of the most celebrated artists of the Neapolitan Baroque, whose vast output included altarpieces, mythological paintings and…