Safira's død 1572

"Safira's død" (The Death of Sapphira), a pen and ink drawing by Maarten van Heemskerck, depicts a scene from the Book of Acts in the Bible. The work, which is a preparatory drawing for a larger painting, portrays the death of Sapphira, who lies dead at the feet of the Apostles Peter and John. The scene is set in a grand architectural space with a group of figures standing around the deceased woman. The artist's meticulous attention to detail and skillful use of line create a powerful and dramatic composition. The drawing is a testament to Heemskerck's mastery of drawing and his ability to capture the intensity of a biblical narrative.