Description
The painting Balaam and the Ass by Pieter Pietersz Último Hombre is a work that stands out for its baroque artistic style, characterized by the intensity in the representation of emotions and the exaggeration of forms. In this work, you can appreciate the influence of the Dutch master Rembrandt, in the way light and shadow are handled to create depth and realism.
The composition of the painting is very interesting, as Balaam, a biblical prophet, can be seen riding a donkey who stops before an angel with a sword in his hand. The donkey, which is the main character of the work, is represented in a very realistic way, with an expression of pain on its face and a body that seems to be in tension. The figure of Balaam, for his part, is represented with an expression of surprise and fear.
Regarding color, the work stands out for the use of dark and earthy tones, which give it a dramatic and mysterious appearance. The angel, for his part, is represented with a golden tone, which gives him a heavenly and supernatural appearance.
The history of the painting is interesting, since it is based on a biblical passage from the Old Testament, in which Balaam is sent by King Balak to curse the people of Israel, but on his way he is stopped by an angel. Pieter Pietersz's work Último Hombre depicts this moment in history in a very realistic and exciting way.
Regarding little-known aspects, it is known that the original work had a size of 41 x 60 cm, which makes it a relatively small work compared to other Baroque paintings. Furthermore, it is known that it was painted in the 17th century, at a time when religious painting was highly valued in Europe.
In conclusion, the painting Balaam and the Ass by Pieter Pietersz Último Hombre is a work that stands out for its baroque style, its dramatic composition, its use of color and its biblical history. It is a work that is still relevant and exciting today, showcasing the skill and talent of the Dutch artist.