Description
Rembrandt's painting "Belshazzar's Feast" is a masterpiece of Dutch Baroque art that has captivated viewers for centuries. The painting depicts a biblical scene in which King Belshazzar of Babylon celebrates a banquet and drinks wine from sacred cups that were stolen from the Temple in Jerusalem. Suddenly, a mysterious hand appears writing on the wall the words "Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin", announcing the fall of Belshazzar's kingdom.
The painting is notable for its dramatic composition and masterful use of colour. Rembrandt uses a rich, dark palette to create a mysterious and ominous atmosphere. The characters are arranged diagonally from the lower left to the upper right corner of the painting, creating a sense of movement and tension. Carefully crafted details, such as the textures of the fabrics and objects, add impressive realism to the work.
Furthermore, the painting is unique for its unusually large size, measuring 168 x 209 cm. Rembrandt created the work in 1635, at the height of his career, and the painting is said to have been commissioned by Prince Maurice of Nassau. The painting has passed through various hands over the centuries and is currently in the National Gallery in London.
An interesting and little known aspect of the painting is that Rembrandt included his own portrait in the work. The artist can be seen in the lower right corner, holding a glass and watching the scene with interest. This detail suggests that Rembrandt identified with the figure of the observant and reflective artist, who is at the center of the action but does not directly participate in it.
In short, "Belshazzar's Feast" is a masterpiece of Baroque art that combines dramatic composition, masterful use of color, and meticulous attention to detail. The painting is an impressive display of Rembrandt's talent and remains one of the most famous works in the history of art.