Christian Dirce
1874 State Tretyakov Gallery
About this artwork
This large-scale oil painting depicts a scene of religious persecution in ancient Rome, showcasing the artist's mastery of historical detail and dramatic lighting. It is one of the most famous works by Henryk Siemiradzki, reflecting his focus on Greco-Roman themes common in the 19th-century academic tradition.
Did you know?
The painting illustrates the tragic story of a Christian woman tied to the horns of a bull, a punishment inspired by the Greek myth of Dirce. Siemiradzki received significant acclaim for this work, which helped establish his international reputation and won him a gold medal at the 1878 Exposition Universelle in Paris.
Know the artwork. Knowing its title and artist turns a beautiful image into a story worth sharing — with a museum label:
Christian Dirce
Henryk Siemiradzki, 1874
On your wall. Unlock the HD download and keep this piece in your Vault — forever.
