Massacre of the Innocents 1611

Guido Reni made this monumental canvas, "Massacre of the Innocents," with oil paints, around 1611, showcasing his mastery of the medium. The luminosity of the figures emerges from the darkness, achieved through layers of carefully blended pigments. Look closely at the figures: the twisting forms and heightened emotion are conveyed with Reni’s smooth brushwork and his considered manipulation of light and shadow. The sheer scale of the painting underscores the magnitude of the historical event. The narrative unfolds with a theatrical drama, but also a cool aesthetic. While we might think of painting as a rarefied pursuit, it’s worth remembering that Reni ran a large workshop. Paintings like this depended on a division of labor. So, while we rightfully admire Reni’s skill, we should also remember the many hands that contributed to the production of this impressive work.