Who painted Elisha mocked by the little children?

Elisha mocked by the little children was painted by Roeloff van Zijl in 1627.

Where can I see Elisha mocked by the little children?

Elisha mocked by the little children is held by Rijksmuseum.

What movement is Elisha mocked by the little children?

Elisha mocked by the little children is associated with Dutch Golden Age.

Can I buy a print of Elisha mocked by the little children?

Museum-quality prints of Elisha mocked by the little children are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Elisha mocked by the little children

Roeloff van Zijl , 1627

Elisha mocked by the little children is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Roeloff van Zijl. It dates from 1627 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Roeloff van Zijl's 1627 oil painting, Elisha mocked by the little children, is a religious work housed in the Rijksmuseum. The scene depicts a group of children and adults reacting to an unseen element, with one boy holding a dog and others gesturing enthusiastically amidst a rocky landscape background.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates a biblical scene where the prophet Elisha is mocked, as referenced in 2 Kings 2:23-25. The subjects' upward gazes and exaggerated expressions convey a moment of teasing or surprise, capturing the narrative's emotional essence.

Technique & Style

Van Zijl employed chiaroscuro, leveraging light and shadow to accentuate the subjects' facial expressions and create depth within the composition. This technique enhances the dramatic and emotional impact of the scene.

History & Provenance

Created in 1627, the painting is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection, though specific details about its commission, earlier ownership, or how it came to the museum are not provided in the available information.

Context

The work reflects the early 17th-century European interest in depicting biblical narratives through vivid, emotionally charged scenes. Van Zijl's use of chiaroscuro aligns with the period's artistic innovations, particularly in Dutch Golden Age painting.

Legacy

While specific influences or notable reproductions of 'Elisha mocked by the little children' are not highlighted, the painting contributes to the broader understanding of religious art in the Dutch Golden Age and the evolution of chiaroscuro in European painting.