Brutal Interrogation 1727 - 1730

Alessandro Magnasco's "Brutal Interrogation" (1727-1730) is a captivating depiction of a scene from the 18th century. This oil painting, housed in the Städel Museum, vividly portrays a group of prisoners, their faces obscured by shadows, being interrogated by a judge seated at a table. The dark, shadowy atmosphere and dramatic lighting create a sense of suspense and uncertainty, leaving the viewer to wonder about the prisoners' fates and the nature of their crimes. Magnasco's keen attention to detail and his masterful use of light and shadow create a powerful and unsettling visual experience.