Artwork
Two Vestal Virgins
Two Vestal Virgins is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Nikolaas Verkolje. It dates from 1719 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.
About this work
Overview
Two Vestal Virgins is an oil painting created by Nikolaas Verkolje in 1719, currently held at the Scottish National Gallery.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts two women, likely Vestal Virgins, in a serene classical setting, dressed in white robes and head coverings, standing before a stone wall with a doorway. One holds a small bowl, while the other gestures to it with a contemplative expression.
Technique & Style
The scene is rendered in warm, golden hues with soft shadows and gentle light, evoking a peaceful atmosphere. The use of oil paint allows for subtle nuances in color and texture, contributing to the overall contemplative mood.
Artist & collection
Artist
Nicolaas Verkolje or Vercolje (11 April 1673 – 21 January 1746) was a Dutch painter and mezzotinter. He specialized in history pieces and portraits in a classicistic style.
The Rape of Europa
Faun and Nymph
Apotheosis of the Dutch East India Company (Allegory of the Amsterdam Chamber of Commerce of the VOC)
De hengelaars
Portrait of David van Mollen and Son-in-Law Jacob Sydervelt with his Family
Dido and Aeneas
Denial of Saint Peter (Matthew 26:69-75; Mark 14:66-72; Luke 21:54-63; John 17:15-25).
De vogelaars
Mercury and Proserpina
The Dream of Queen Katherine (from William Shakespeare's 'Henry VIII', Act IV, Scene 2) (fragment)
Hercules Protects Painting from Ignorance and Envy
Allegory of Sensuality
Hagar and Ishmael in the Wilderness (Genesis 21.17)
Judith's Prayer
Achilles among the Daughters of Lycomedes
Hebe feeding Jupiter's eagle
Paulus the Apostle defending himself at the Trial in Caesarea
Andromache and Astyanax
The Continence of Scipio
Alcestis and Admetus