Description
The painting Tobit Burying the Dead in Defiance of the Orders of Sennacherib by the artist Louis-Joseph Le Lorrain is a masterpiece of 18th-century French painting. The painting is painted in oil on canvas and has an original size of 38 x 50 cm.
The composition of the painting is very interesting as it shows Tobit and his son Tobias burying a dead man against the orders of King Sennacherib. The figure of Tobit is in the center of the composition, with his son at his side and a female figure behind them. The scene is full of details, such as the dog at Tobit's feet, the trees and vegetation behind them, and the city in the background.
The artistic style of the painting is very characteristic of the French Rococo, with a palette of soft and delicate colors, and a special attention to detail and ornamentation. The Tobit figure is dressed in a white robe and red cloak, while his son wears a green and brown outfit. The female figure behind them is dressed in a pink dress and a black hat.
The story behind the painting is very interesting as it is based on a passage from the Book of Tobias in the Bible. Tobit and his son Tobias are two biblical characters who face the oppression of King Sennacherib and decide to disobey his orders to bury a dead man. This story has been represented in painting and literature throughout the centuries, and the work of Le Lorrain is one of the most famous.
A little known aspect of the painting is that it was commissioned by King Louis XV of France for his personal collection. The work was painted in 1740 and became one of the king's favourites. The painting has been exhibited in various art exhibitions and has been the subject of study by art and religious experts.
In conclusion, the painting Tobit Burying the Dead in Defiance of the Orders of Sennacherib by Louis-Joseph Le Lorrain is a masterpiece of French Rococo showing a Biblical story with an interesting composition, characteristic art style and a fascinating story behind it. .