The Feast of Herod
1636 National Galleries Scotland
About this artwork
This large-scale oil on canvas depicts a dramatic biblical scene set in a lavish, opulent banquet hall. It is a quintessential example of Rubens' mastery of theatrical composition and rich color palettes.
Did you know?
This work captures the chilling moment when Salome presents the head of John the Baptist to King Herod on a silver platter. Rubens skillfully contrasts the morbid horror of the severed head with the indulgent luxury of the banquet, emphasizing the moral decay of Herod's court through intense facial expressions and elaborate textures.
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The Feast of Herod
Peter Paul Rubens, 1636
