Jan Massys; Susana And The Elders

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The Northern Renaissance produced great artist like Jan Massys. The style of Flemish painting done by Jan Massys reflects the era after the start of the Reformation. The painting of Susanna and the Elders is clearly that of Northern Renaissance and explains some of the religious tensions of that time. The visual analysis of Susanna and the elders is an example of the style that Massys used during this time. My first response when looking at the painting of Susanna and the Elders is that something is about to happen. The two men that converse to one another seem to be plotting. The images pop from the background with the use of subtle chiaroscuro, and the focal point is Susanna in the middle waiting un assumingly to bathe. The reference to neoclassical style is in her contra postal posture, as well as the way her bath robe falls innocently collecting deep folds just above the thigh. This allegory about lust demonstrates the mannerist style of the era. If you did not know the story about Susanna and the Elders the subject matter might seem ambiguous at first glance of the painting but radiates drama. The balance of the painting is proportional with an equal number of people on either side of Susanna and adjusted with color more than line. Jan Massys painted with great detail. This painting has aged well over the years. When viewed from a far you cannot make out the brush strokes until you bring yourself closer to the painting. The medium of oil on panel has helped preserve this painting. The paint also gave a smooth soft texture that makes Susanna seem naiveté and innocent. Other mediums like egg tempera or frescos could not be used because of the climate in Flanders. The oil paints were durable and complimented the evolved style from the Northern Renaissance to the now mannerist style of Massys. If you follow the lines of the stone benches they lead you
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