Who painted The Feast of Herod (recto)?

The Feast of Herod (recto) was painted by Peter Paul Rubens in 1638.

Where can I see The Feast of Herod (recto)?

The Feast of Herod (recto) is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Feast of Herod (recto)?

The Feast of Herod (recto) is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

The Feast of Herod (recto)

Peter Paul Rubens , 1638

The Feast of Herod (recto) is a drawing by the Baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens. It dates from 1638 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This drawing serves as a preparatory study for Rubens' painting 'The Feast of Herod', now housed at the Scottish National Gallery in Edinburgh. Executed with loose, expressive lines, it captures a pivotal moment in the narrative with immediacy.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts the instant Herod recoils in horror as Salome reveals the severed head of Saint John the Baptist on a charger. Herodias, with a chilling smile, gestures toward the head with a fork, amplifying the dramatic tension.

Technique & Style

Characterized by rapid, spontaneous execution, the drawing showcases Rubens' use of loose lines to convey dynamic movement and emotion. The emphasis on capturing the shock and drama of the moment reflects his planning process for larger, more polished works.

History & Provenance

Part of a two-sided sheet, the recto focuses on 'The Feast of Herod', while the verso sketches 'Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus'. Rubens produced two paintings of the latter subject, now located in Paris and Boston.

Context

Created in Rubens' Antwerp studio, this drawing demonstrates his practice of using sketches to direct pupils and prepare for paintings. Notable annotations by Rubens, such as 'Herodias somewhat higher' and 'plus spatij' (more space), offer insight into his compositional decisions.