Noah Leaving the Ark 1649 - 1685

Adam Colonia painted “Noah Leaving the Ark” with oil on canvas sometime in the 17th century. The scene depicts Noah's family and a diverse array of animals disembarking from the ark after the great flood. The painting was made in the Netherlands, a Protestant country. Biblical scenes were not confined to churches and took on new public roles, appearing in domestic settings for instruction and enjoyment. The deluge was a popular subject, often interpreted as God's punishment for human sin, but also as a promise of renewal. What makes this painting particularly interesting is the social dimension Colonia gives to the story. The exodus from the ark is a controlled enterprise with Noah in the front directing the procession, with his family members, and exotic animals, all organized according to their species. It’s a reminder that the production and interpretation of art are always shaped by the beliefs of the time. Understanding this requires a dive into history, exploring the social, religious, and political context in which the artwork was created.