Keizer Diocletianus vermoordt Aper 1804

Reinier Vinkeles's "Keizer Diocletianus vermoordt Aper" (1804) depicts the Roman Emperor Diocletianus killing Aper, who was a Roman Praetorian Prefect. The drawing is a detailed depiction of a historical event, illustrating the brutal nature of Roman politics. The scene is set in an ornate interior, with a focus on the two central figures. Diocletianus is shown in the act of killing Aper, the force of the action highlighted by the dynamic poses of the figures and the dramatic use of light and shadow. The drawing provides a glimpse into the world of Roman emperors and the violence that often accompanied their rule. This work, housed in the Rijksmuseum, exemplifies the artistic style of the Dutch Golden Age, known for its meticulous detail and focus on historical narratives.