Description
Rembrandt's painting "The Blinding of Samson" is a masterpiece of Baroque art depicting the dramatic biblical scene in which the biblical hero Samson is blinded by his Philistine enemies. The painting is one of Rembrandt's largest and most ambitious works, with an original size of 236 x 302 cm.
The composition of the painting is impressive, with a great amount of detail and characters intertwining in a chaotic but perfectly balanced scene. The use of chiaroscuro and light and shadow is typical of Rembrandt's style, and is used here to highlight the figure of Samson in the center of the painting, surrounded by his enemies and bystanders.
The color of the painting is dark and sombre, with predominant earthy and gray tones that reflect the sadness and despair of the scene. However, there are touches of bright color in the characters' clothing and jewelry, which add an interesting contrast to the work.
The history of the painting is fascinating, as it is believed to have been commissioned by Prince Maurice of Nassau in 1636. The work was stolen by the Nazis during World War II and later recovered by Allied forces. It is currently in the collection of the Städel Museum in Frankfurt, Germany.
Little-known aspects of the painting include the presence of a Rembrandt self-portrait in the lower left corner of the work, as well as the depiction of various historical and mythological figures in the scene, including Samson, Delilah, a satyr, a faun, and various philistines.
In summary, "The Blinding of Samson" is an impressive work that demonstrates Rembrandt's talent and mastery in the use of chiaroscuro, composition and colour. Its history and little-known details add even more interest to this masterpiece of Baroque art.