Belshazzar's Feast (Rembrandt)

Rembrandt-Belsazar

Belshazzar's Feast is a painting by the Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn, created in approximately 1635-1638. The artwork is housed in the National Gallery, London. It depicts the Biblical story of the writing on the wall from the Book of Daniel, where Belshazzar, the Babylonian king, sees a divine hand writing mysterious words on his palace wall during a feast, foretelling the fall of his empire.

Description

The painting measures 167.6 cm by 209.2 cm. It is executed in oil on canvas. Rembrandt's composition is dramatic, with the use of chiaroscuro to highlight the astonishment and fear on the faces of Belshazzar and his guests as they witness the miraculous event. The text written on the wall, "MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN," is rendered in a stylized script that adds to the painting's mysterious atmosphere. This phrase, meaning "God has numbered the days of your kingdom and brought it to an end; you have been weighed in the balances and found wanting; your kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians," is central to the narrative and is depicted prominently.

Themes and Interpretation

The painting is rich in symbolism and themes, including the transient nature of power, divine judgment, and the folly of hubris. Rembrandt's depiction of the opulent feast with its golden vessels, taken from the Temple in Jerusalem, contrasts sharply with the divine intervention that abruptly ends Belshazzar's reign. This contrast serves as a moral lesson on the dangers of sacrilege and the ultimate authority of the divine.

Historical Context

"Belshazzar's Feast" is considered one of Rembrandt's masterpieces and reflects his deep interest in Biblical stories, which often served as subjects for his works. The painting was created during the Dutch Golden Age, a period of great wealth, cultural achievement, and artistic production in the Netherlands. Rembrandt, known for his innovative use of light and shadow, as well as his psychological depth and realism, was a leading figure in Dutch art during this time.

Provenance and Exhibition

The painting's early history is not well-documented, but it has been part of the collection of the National Gallery in London since 1964. It remains one of the most popular works in the museum, admired for its dramatic depiction of the Biblical story and Rembrandt's masterful execution.

Influence and Legacy

"Belshazzar's Feast" has had a significant impact on the arts, inspiring other artists, writers, and composers who have been drawn to the dramatic and moral aspects of the story. The painting is often cited in discussions of Rembrandt's exploration of light, shadow, and emotion, contributing to his reputation as one of the greatest painters in Western art history.