Artwork preview

Cain Killing Abel

Lucas van Leyden

National Gallery of Art

The image depicts two human figures in an intense scene. Both figures' entire bodies are visible. The figure on the left is seated on the ground, with one arm supporting itself and the other reaching out towards the other figure. This figure has long, wavy hair and is draped with a cloth covering part of the body. The facial expression appears tense or pained. The other figure, positioned above and to the right, is lunging forward, with a dynamic pose suggesting movement. This figure has curly hair and is primarily unclothed, with a cloth loosely wrapped around. The left hand is grasping the outstretched arm of the seated figure, and the right hand holds an agricultural tool. The background reveals rugged terrain with rocks and trees, and large clouds are visible in the sky. A stone with the date "1529" inscribed is placed prominently in the foreground.

Artwork Details

Date
1529
Medium
engraving
Dimensions
3358 × 4652 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette