Depictions of Women

The Temptation by Lothar von Seebach depicts a dramatic scene from the biblical story of Adam and Eve. The painting features a woman in a lush garden, surrounded by a tree bearing an apple, with a serpent coiled around her arm. The composition is rich in symbolism, highlighting themes of temptation and the fall of man.

painting by A. Altamura

painting by Fernand Maillaud

This painting depicts the coronation of Marie de' Medici, a significant event in French history, where she is crowned as queen by Louis XIII of France. The scene is richly detailed, showcasing the elaborate regalia, ceremonial attire, and the grandeur of the occasion. It is a historical painting by Alexandre-Marie Colin, inspired by the work of Peter Paul Rubens.

This painting depicts the story of Lucretia, a Roman noblewoman known for her virtue and tragic end. Created by Lucas Cranach the Elder in 1534, it is housed in the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum. The artwork captures the moment of Lucretia's suicide after being raped by the king's son, symbolizing themes of honor and moral integrity.

A Family in the Stone Age depicts a prehistoric scene featuring a family engaged in a hunt. The painting, created in 1892 by Emmanuel Benner, showcases a man and woman with an infant, a bear, and a stone axe, set against a backdrop of a fireplace and tree. It is an example of historical painting, capturing the essence of early human life and survival.

This painting depicts King Seleucus I Nicator relinquishing his wife, Stratonice of Syria, and his crown to his son Antiochus I Soter, symbolizing the transfer of power and legacy. Created by Adriaen van der Werff in 1720, it is a historical painting that captures a significant moment in Hellenistic history.

This historical painting by Charles-Émile Mathis depicts the aftermath of the Franco-Prussian War in Strasbourg, showing the city's ruins and a woman holding a sword, symbolizing resilience and resistance.

painting by Anders Zorn

painting by Axel Stephansen (Oslo Museum, OB.01314)

painting by Axel Stephansen

painting by Axel Stephansen

painting by Axel Stephansen (Oslo Museum, OB.01321)

Lucretia is an oil-on-canvas painting by Paolo Veronese from c.1580-1583. This Venetian painting depicts Lucretia in the act of piercing her chest with a dagger after having been raped by the king’s son of Sextus Tarquinius. It is held in the collection of Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Austria.

The Rape of the Sabine Women is a historical painting by Peter Paul Rubens, depicting the legendary event in which the Romans abducted women from the Sabine tribe to replenish their population. The composition is dynamic, showcasing the struggle and tension of the scene with a rich use of color and movement. Rubens' mastery of Baroque style is evident in the dramatic lighting and expressive figures.

The Apotheosis of Infanta Isabella is a grand historical painting by Peter Paul Rubens, created in 1634. It depicts the divine elevation of Infanta Isabella, a Spanish princess, to the heavens, symbolizing her eternal glory. The work is celebrated for its dynamic composition, rich symbolism, and vibrant colors, reflecting Rubens' mastery in blending religious and mythological themes with historical events.

The Continence of Scipio depicts the Roman general Scipio Africanus refusing the gifts of the Carthaginian queen, a scene from the Punic Wars. The painting captures the moment of moral integrity and restraint, with Scipio shown in a dignified pose, surrounded by his soldiers and the queen. It is a prime example of Rubens' mastery in historical and mythological subjects, blending dramatic composition with rich detail.

The Victory of Henry IV at Coutras is a historical painting by Peter Paul Rubens, depicting the decisive battle of the French Wars of Religion. The work showcases Rubens' mastery of dynamic composition and dramatic lighting, capturing the moment of Henry IV's victory over the Huguenots at the Battle of Coutras in 1628. It is housed in the Liechtenstein Collection, known for its rich collection of Baroque art.

The Tragedy of Lucretia is a tempera and oil painting on a wood cassone or spalliera panel by the Italian Renaissance master Sandro Botticelli, painted between 1496 and 1504. Known less formally as the Botticelli Lucretia, it is housed in the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum of Boston, Massachusetts, having been owned by Isabella Stewart Gardner in her lifetime.

Cimon and Pero is a historical painting by Dutch artist Willem Drost, created in 1656. The work depicts the Greek hero Cimon and his nurse Pero, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing human emotion and narrative. The painting is housed in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, though its location is noted as Venice, Italy, which may indicate a historical or thematic connection to the city.

painting by Rudolf von Alt

painting by Rudolf von Alt

The Chivalric Vow of the Ladies and the Peacock is a historical painting by Daniel Maclise, created in 1835. The artwork depicts a scene from medieval literature, illustrating the ceremonial vow of knighthood. It features a peacock, symbolizing nobility and virtue, alongside ladies and knights at a banquet, highlighting themes of chivalry and honor.

This painting by Noël Hallé depicts Cornélie, the mother of the Gracchi brothers, a significant figure in Roman history. The artwork captures her with her children, highlighting themes of family and political legacy.

The Death of Sardanapalus is an 1827 oil painting on canvas by the French artist Eugène Delacroix. It depicts the dramatic scene from the tale of Sardanapalus, a king of Assyria, as described by Greek historian Diodorus Siculus. The painting is characterized by its rich, vivid colors and broad brushstrokes, reflecting the Romantic style. It was inspired by Lord Byron's play Sardanapalus (1821) and influenced Hector Berlioz's cantata Sardanapale (1830) and Franz Liszt's unfinished opera Sardanapalo (1845–1852).

painting by Louis de Caullery

This painting by Dirk van Delen depicts a fantastical architectural scene featuring four elegantly dressed women standing on the steps of a grand ramp. The composition combines intricate details of the architecture with the graceful figures of the women, creating a sense of grandeur and mystery.

This painting depicts a woman and her daughters, likely from the Roman family of Brutus. The scene is set in a domestic environment, capturing the intimate moments of a family. The artwork is notable for its detailed portrayal of the figures and the historical context of the Brutus family, which is significant in Roman history.

This painting depicts Emperor Marcus Aurelius distributing bread to the people, a scene that reflects the Roman tradition of sharing resources with citizens. Created by Joseph-Marie Vien in 1765, it captures the historical and social context of the Roman Empire, showcasing the emperor's role as a benefactor to his subjects.

This historical painting depicts Juana I of Castile, also known as Jeanne la Folle, on her deathbed. The artwork captures the emotional intensity of her final moments, surrounded by family members, including her husband Philip I of Castile. Created by Pierre-Raymond Monvoisin in 1833, the painting is a poignant representation of the Spanish queen's tragic life and legacy.

This historical painting by Charles Spindler depicts a romantic scene between two figures, likely representing the legendary lovers Adalrich and Bereswinda. The artwork captures the emotional depth of their relationship, set against a dramatic landscape that enhances the narrative of their story.

This painting by Eglon van der Neer depicts a scene from ancient mythology, specifically the story of Candaules, the King of Lydia, and his wife Nyssia. The narrative centers on Nyssia discovering Gyges, a courtier, hiding in a bedchamber. The composition captures the moment of revelation, with Nyssia standing in the background while Gyges is partially concealed by drapery. The painting is notable for its detailed depiction of clothing, anatomy, and the intimate setting of the bedroom.

White House at Night is an oil-on-canvas painting created on 16 June 1890 in the small town of Auvers-sur-Oise by Vincent van Gogh, six weeks before his death. It is displayed at the Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg.

The Deliverance of Arsinoe depicts Arsinoe IV of Egypt fleeing from Alexandria after Julius Caesar arrived in the city in 48 BC and sided with Arsinoe's half-sister Cleopatra. The painting, created between 1555 and 1556, is a historical scene showcasing the dramatic moment of her deliverance. It is currently housed in the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister in Dresden, Germany.

Christian II signing the Death Warrant of Torben Oxe is an 1875–76 oil on canvas historical painting by Eilif Peterssen. It is considered one of the principal works of Norwegian historical painting, and is part of the collection of the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design.

The Church at Auvers is an oil painting created by Dutch Post-Impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh in June 1890. It depicts the Church of Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption in Auvers-sur-Oise, France, with vibrant brushstrokes capturing the landscape and architecture. The painting is now housed in the Musée d'Orsay in Paris, France.

The Cradle of the Confederation is a 1899 painting by Charles Giron depicting the scenic landscape of the Old Swiss Confederacy. The artwork features the Urnersee, Seelisberg, and Rütli, which are significant locations in Swiss history. It showcases the natural beauty of the Swiss countryside with elements like the Mythen mountains, Schwyz, and the olive branch, symbolizing peace and unity. The painting also includes a woman and a trout, adding a touch of life and cultural symbolism to the scene.

En agitator (Henningsen) is a historical painting by Erik Henningsen created in 1899. The artwork depicts a scene involving a horse, police force, flag, and banner, with figures including a child, woman, and man present. It captures a moment of tension or protest, likely reflecting social or political themes of the late 19th century.

This watercolor painting by Hortense Haudebourt-Lescot depicts the poignant moment of Marie of Cleves' death. The scene captures her final moments, surrounded by figures including Catherine de' Medici and Henri, Prince of Condé, reflecting the historical and emotional significance of the event.

Guido Cagnacci's 1659 painting depicts the moment of Cleopatra's suicide, showing her as a tragic figure with a snake bite wound on her neck. The composition focuses on her emotional expression and the dramatic moment of death, with detailed attention to her anatomy and the surrounding objects. The painting is notable for its realistic portrayal of the female form and the use of light to enhance the scene's somber mood.

Morning Ride on the Beach is an 1876 painting by Dutch artist Anton Mauve from the Hague School. It shows a group of riders on the Scheveningen beach, painted in an impressionistic style. The work is now in the collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

This architectural painting by Constantin Hansen depicts the grand portico of Christiansborg Castle in Copenhagen. The artwork captures the intricate details of the castle's entrance, showcasing the neoclassical design and ornate elements characteristic of the 19th century. It is a notable example of architectural painting from the early 1800s.

The Intervention of the Sabine Women is a 1799 painting by the French painter Jacques-Louis David, showing a legendary episode following the abduction of the Sabine women by the founding generation of Rome. The scene depicts the women intervening to prevent a violent conflict between the Romans and the Sabines, symbolizing the peaceful resolution that led to the founding of Rome. The painting is notable for its dramatic composition and historical significance, reflecting the ideals of the French Revolution.

This painting by Michele Marieschi depicts the Campo di Santi Giovanni e Paolo in Venice, showcasing the Scuola di San Marco, a prominent Venetian institution. The scene includes the iconic Statua di Bartolomeo Colleoni, a bronze statue of the Venetian general, and features elements such as gondolas, men, and women, capturing the lively atmosphere of the Venetian landscape.

Paris Street; Rainy Day is a large 1877 oil painting by the French artist Gustave Caillebotte (1848–1894), and is his best known work. It shows a number of individuals walking through the Place de Dublin, then known as the Carrefour de Moscou, at an intersection to the east of the Gare Saint-Lazare in north Paris. Although Caillebotte was a friend and patron of many of the impressionist painters, and this work is part of that school, it differs in its realism and reliance on line rather than broad brush strokes.

Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe – originally titled Le Bain – is a large oil on canvas painting by Édouard Manet created in 1862 and 1863. The painting depicts a nude woman seated on the grass with a clothed man, surrounded by a landscape featuring trees, a watercourse, and a basket of fruit. It is known for its provocative composition and the bold depiction of nudity, which sparked controversy upon its initial exhibition.

The Death of Cleopatra depicts the moment of Cleopatra's suicide as she lies on a bed, surrounded by Egyptian symbols and a mourning figure. The painting captures the tragic end of the Egyptian queen, who chose to die by the bite of an asp rather than be captured by the Romans. Created in 1874 by French artist Jean-André Rixens, it was exhibited at the 1874 Salon and is currently housed in the Musée des Augustins in Toulouse, France.

This historical painting by Jean-Charles Tardieu depicts Napoleon I receiving the Queen of Prussia, Louise of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, at the Treaty of Tilsit in 1807. The scene captures the diplomatic meeting between the French Emperor and the Prussian monarch, highlighting the political significance of the event.