Artwork

The Death of Lucretia

The Death of Lucretia, by Rembrandt, oil, 1640
The Death of Lucretia, by Rembrandt, oil, 1640

The Death of Lucretia is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Rembrandt. It dates from 1640 and is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts.

About this work

Overview

The Death of Lucretia is a 1640 oil painting by Rembrandt van Rijn, a prominent figure in Dutch art. It is a history painting, a genre that depicts scenes from mythology, literature, or historical events.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates the legendary story of Lucretia, a Roman figure. The scene shows Lucretia on the floor, surrounded by two men, one dressed in dark attire and the other in ornate robes, suggesting a moment of drama or conflict.

Technique & Style

The painting features a dramatic use of chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of depth and volume. The lighting focuses on the faces of the figures, creating deep shadows around them.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the collection at the Detroit Institute of Arts. It is characteristic of Rembrandt's diverse range of subjects and styles, and is associated with the Dutch Golden Age, a period of significant cultural and artistic achievement in the Netherlands.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Rembrandt

Artist

Rembrandt

Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (15 July 1606 – 4 October 1669), known mononymously as Rembrandt, was a Dutch Golden Age painter, printmaker, and draughtsman.