On-line gallery
- Reference number
- P01477
- Author
- Dyck, Anton van (Flemish),
- Title
- Seizure of Christ
- Chronology
- 1618-1620
- Technique
- Support
- Measures
- 344 cm x 249 cm
- School
- Theme
- Shown
- Yes
- Entrance
- COLECCIONREAL
- Procedence
- Royal Collection
In the darkness of the Mount of
Olives, Jesus receives the kiss
that consummates Judas' betrayal
while Peter cuts off the ear of
Malco, the High Priest's servant,
with his sword, as described in the
Bible story.
This work from Van Dyck's youth is
directly based on Venetian models.
The low viewpoint and the use of a
single source of light contribute
to its great dramatic intensity,
which is very appropriated for the
event.
This is one of the painter's most
successful compositions and various
versions are known, with variations
only in secondary aspects. The
Prado Museum's painting belonged to
Rubens. When he died, it was
acquired by Felipe IV, who sent it
to Madrid's Alcázar Palace.
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