Bathsheba at her Toilet 1594

Cornelis Cornelisz van Haarlem's "Bathsheba at her Toilet" (1594) depicts the biblical story of Bathsheba bathing while being observed by King David. The painting, now in the Rijksmuseum, showcases van Haarlem's mastery of Northern Renaissance style, evident in the detailed figures, rich colors, and meticulous rendering of the landscape setting. The presence of a black servant attending to Bathsheba highlights the cultural context of the time and adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. This work, like many of van Haarlem's other paintings, reflects the artistic trends of the late 16th century, a period marked by a renewed interest in classical mythology and biblical themes.