Old Masters to 19th Century

Gerard Honthorst, "The Death of Seneca", 17th century

The philosopher, playwright, speaker and sermonizer Seneca lived in Rome in the first century of the Common Era and was active during the reign of three Cesars - Caligula, Claudius and Nero. After his participation in an intrigue against Nero was discovered, he was condemned to death, and commanded to choose the method of his death. He chose to cut his veins, and one of his pupils suggested he take a cup of poison to ease his suffering. Seneca, who was of the Stoic School, received his death with complete tranquility, and a deep faith in the superiority of the spirit over the flesh and the enduring of the soul [after death].

The composition of the painting emphasizes this feeling of peace and highlights the dramatic nature of the event. Honthorst places emphasis on the stream of blood erupting from the veins in contradistinction to the serene (tranquil, placid) face, and uses sharp black and white contrasts to underline the dramatic atmosphere. The play of light and shadow is typical of the artist, which bestowed upon him the nickname "Gerard of the Nightime Paintings". He lived in Italy for 10 years and was deeply influenced by Caravaggio. Gerard von Honthorst is one of the few Dutch artists, besides Rembrandt, who earned praise and recognition throughout the world in their lifetime.

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