Orestes and Pylades Disputing at the Altar 1614

"Orestes and Pylades Disputing at the Altar," painted in 1614 by Pieter Lastman, depicts a scene from Greek mythology. The painting showcases Lastman's signature use of chiaroscuro, a technique emphasizing strong contrasts of light and dark, and its theatrical composition, a hallmark of the Northern Baroque. The artwork depicts the moment when Orestes, seeking to appease the Furies for the murder of his mother, Clytemnestra, is confronted by Pylades, his loyal friend, who argues against sacrificing Iphigenia at the altar. Lastman's meticulous attention to detail and the dramatic portrayal of the scene make this a compelling and visually captivating piece.