Artwork
Lucretia
Lucretia is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Master of the Holy Blood. It dates from 1510 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.
About this work
The painting is an example of the artistic style of the Master of the Holy Blood, who was active in the early 16th century.
This painting depicts a woman with a sword, dressed in a white top and a red skirt. She is adorned with gold jewelry, including a necklace and a headpiece. The woman's right hand grasps the sword's hilt, while her left hand rests on her lap. A dark red cloth is draped over her left shoulder.
The woman's facial expression is neutral, and her gaze is directed to the right side of the painting. The background of the painting is dark, which contrasts with the woman's bright clothing. The overall atmosphere of the painting is one of elegance and refinement.
The painting is an example of the artistic style of the Master of the Holy Blood, who was active in the early 16th century. To learn more about the artist's work, look up Master of the Holy Blood.
Overview
The painting Lucretia is a work by the Master of the Holy Blood, an Early Netherlandish artist active in Bruges around 1510. It is an oil painting held in the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Lucretia, a classical figure often represented in Renaissance art, dressed in contemporary attire and adorned with jewelry. She is shown with a sword, symbolizing her legendary suicide.
Technique & Style
The artist's use of oil paint and attention to detail, such as the rendering of the subject's clothing and jewelry, exemplify the refined style characteristic of the Master of the Holy Blood. The contrast between the dark background and the subject's bright attire adds to the overall elegance of the work.
History & Provenance
The Master of the Holy Blood, whose real name is unknown, is associated with Bruges due to a work linked to the city's Museum of the Holy Blood. The painting Lucretia is now part of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Master of the Holy Blood (active 1510–1520) was an Early Netherlandish painter, whose workshop was located in Bruges (Belgium).
Museum
Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
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