Jacob Burying the Pagan Idols 1635 - 1676

"Jacob Burying the Pagan Idols" (1635-1676) by Jan Victors is a Dutch Golden Age painting depicting the biblical story of Jacob, patriarch of the Israelites, destroying the idols of his household, as told in Genesis. This dramatic scene, featuring a group of people burying idols, showcases the artist's skill in portraying a range of emotions and expressions. The painting, now housed in the Statens Museum for Kunst in Denmark, is a prime example of the genre of history painting popular in the 17th century. The detailed depiction of clothing, facial expressions, and the landscape creates a sense of realism and invites viewers to contemplate the story's significance.