Object number1941.1.54

Susannah and the Elders

Datec. 1508

Artist Lucas van Leyden (Netherlandish, 1494 - 1533)

CultureNetherlandish

MediumEngraving on tan paper

DimensionsImage: 7 5/8 x 5 5/8 in. (19.37 x 14.29 cm)

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Felix M. Warburg and her children

On View

Not on view

Period16th c

Classification(s)

SignedSigned (on shield hanging from tree stump): L

Catalogue raisonnéBartsch/Hollstein 33BibliographyMundy, James, The Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center: Vassar College The History and Collection (New York: Prestel Publishing, 2007), p. 37 repr.; Limouze, Dorothy and Susan Kuretsky. The Felix M. Warburg Print Collection: A Legacy of Discernment. Poughkeepsie, N. Y.: The Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center, Vassar College, 1995. Bartsch/Hollstein 33; Limouze 33ProvenanceCollections: Martin Folkes (1690-1754, Lugt 1034); T. J. Thompson (first half nineteenth century, Lugt 2442); W. Ducker (first half ninteenth century, Lugt 204); Junis Spencer Morgan (1867-1932); Felix M. and Frieda Warburg, New York
DescriptionThe reputation of the Dutch painter and engraver Lucas van Leyden has been overshadowed by that of his German contemporary, Dürer. He was, however, capable of innovative presentations of narrative, as is the case here. Tradi- tional portrayals of Susanna, the Old Testament heroine, spied on while bathing, normally place her in the foreground and include the elders in the middle or background peering from their cover. Lucas, however, reverses this orientation and places us in the elders’ space, thereby focusing our attention on the interaction of two voyeurs as they regard the rather chastely dressed Susannah dangling her legs in the stream in the background. She is in- cidental to the main story, the foolishness of the two men, idly gawking and displaying openly such morally questionable behavior. This engraving dates from around 1508, when Lucas first started making prints. His later works are clearly dated on the plates.

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email loebcollections@vassar.edu