Susannah and the Elders
fourth quarter of 17th century
- Medium
- Oil on canvas
- Dimensions
- 101.3 × 137.2 cm
- Status
- In Museum Collection
- Collect24 Art ID
- C24-130440
Two lascivious Jewish judges lean over a voluptuous nude female, bullying Susannah, the pretty and God-fearing wife of a rich and prominent Jew, as she bathes. Though she had thought she was hidden, these elders of the community had spied on her and entered her husband's private garden. She shies away in modesty, refusing their desires despite their threats to accuse her of adultery. When they later brought Susannah to trial, the young prophet Daniel proved her innocence, and her false accusers were sentenced to death in her place. Johann Carl Loth emphasized the contrast between the characters, depicting Susannah in the bright light of day, while the elders lurk in the shadows. Bold colors and chiaroscuro> further intensify the drama of the scene.
Provenance
The J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles
Registry history
- fourth quarter of 17th century — Recorded in the collection of J. Paul Getty Museum
Registered on Collect24
The identity of the collector is never published. Purchase information, documents and the exact location of the artwork remain private.
Ownership not yet verified on Collect24
This artwork is documented in the Global Art Registry, but no Collect24 account is linked to it as the owner. Claiming keeps this record and its Collect24 Art ID — nothing is created a second time.
Do you own or represent this artwork? Claim this artwork →Auction history
Public sale records matched to this work. Ownership is never disclosed.
Loading sale records…