The Death of Seneca 1685

Luca Giordano painted "The Death of Seneca" using oil on canvas, a common material and process during the 17th century. Giordano’s technique involves layering the paint to create depth and drama. Look closely, and you’ll see how the visible brushstrokes add texture, and how the way the material interacts with light brings the scene to life. The medium of oil paint allowed the artist to blend colors and create the illusion of smooth skin, fabric, and stone. This method of painting wasn't just about aesthetics; it was a trade, a craft mastered through years of apprenticeship. The value of the painting, back then and now, isn't just in the image, but also in the labor, skill, and materials that went into its creation. Recognizing the material reality of a painting like this reminds us that art-making is work, a process, and an embodiment of cultural values tied to production and consumption.