On-line gallery
- Reference number
- P01637
- Author
- Dyck, Anton van (Flemish)
- Title
- The Metal Serpent
- Chronology
- 1618-1620
- Technique
- Support
- Measures
- 205 cm x 235 cm
- School
- Theme
- Shown
- Yes
- Entrance
- COLECCION REAL
- Procedence
- Royal Collection
This dramatic scene from the Old
Testament (Numbers 21, 4-9) shows
the moment when Moses saves his
people from the serpents sent by
God as punishment for their lack of
faith. On a rod is the bronze
serpent, the simple contemplation
of which cures anyone bitten by
snakes. It symbolizes salvation.
This is a foreshadowing of Christ's
Crucifixion, which brings pardon to
humanity and triumphs over the
mortal serpent of Original
Sin.
The slender figures, tragic
language, long brushstrokes and
excessive paint in the white areas
are typical of work from Van Dyck's
youth.
The false signature of Rubens
appears on the lower right corner.
Location on the map
