Description
The painting The Massacre of the Innocents by Daniele Da Volterra is a stunning work of art that has captivated viewers for centuries. This original size 51 x 42 cm painting depicts a biblical scene from the New Testament in which King Herod orders the slaughter of all children under the age of two in Bethlehem.
Daniele Da Volterra's artistic style in this painting is impressive. His use of the chiaroscuro technique creates a dark and dramatic atmosphere that reflects the violence and horror of the massacre. The composition of the painting is also impressive, as the artist manages to balance the scene effectively by placing the main figures in the center of the painting and surrounding them with minor characters.
The color in this painting is another interesting aspect. Da Volterra uses a dark and somber color palette to reflect the sadness and pain of the scene. Red and brown tones are used to represent blood and violence, while gray and black tones represent death and suffering.
The story behind this painting is also fascinating. Daniele Da Volterra painted this work in 1540, after being commissioned by Cardinal Guido Ascanio Sforza to decorate the Sforza family chapel in the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo in Rome. The painting was originally in the Sforza family chapel, but is now in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.
A little-known aspect of this painting is that Daniele Da Volterra was known for his work restoring ancient works of art, including restoring Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. His work restoring ancient works of art influenced his artistic style and technique, which can be clearly seen in The Massacre of the Innocents.
In short, Daniele Da Volterra's painting The Massacre of the Innocents is an impressive and moving work of art that reflects the violence and horror of the Biblical massacre. The artistic style, composition, color and history of the painting are all interesting and fascinating aspects that make this artwork a unique and valuable piece of art history.