Artwork

Claudius Civilis Defeats the Roman Troops near the Rhine in 69 AD

Claudius Civilis Defeats the Roman Troops near the Rhine in 69 AD, by Otto van Veen, oil, 1606
Claudius Civilis Defeats the Roman Troops near the Rhine in 69 AD, by Otto van Veen, oil, 1606

Claudius Civilis Defeats the Roman Troops near the Rhine in 69 AD is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Otto van Veen. It dates from 1606 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Claudius Civilis Defeats the Roman Troops near the Rhine in 69 AD is an oil painting by Otto van Veen, created in 1606 and held at the Rijksmuseum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a chaotic battle scene, referencing the historical conflict between Claudius Civilis's forces and Roman troops. Two fallen figures, one in red and one in blue, dominate the foreground, surrounded by clashing soldiers on horseback and on foot.

Technique & Style

The artist employs chiaroscuro, using dark shadows to create contrast and emphasize key figures. Earthy tones such as browns, reds, and blues prevail, punctuated by flashes of metal from weapons, adding depth and visual interest to the scene.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Otto van Veen

Artist

Otto van Veen

Otto van Veen, was a painter, draughtsman, and humanist active primarily in Antwerp and Brussels in the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

Rijksmuseum

Museum

Rijksmuseum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Rijksmuseum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.